The Forbidden Land of Sundara: Broken Sun IC [Archive]

Plushie Arz

2017-11-27, 08:25 AM

https://i.imgur.com/jVdZRTF.jpg

The Village of Chan'taal
Population: 700

The village of Chan’taal lay five days south of the Ruins of Kae’ris, to the west of the Permulian Forest. It was a small village of seven hundred on the fringes of the Dinassi Empire, barely registering in the Order’s maps and records. To the south of the village, the peaks of the Great Dividing Chains loomed large while to the north, the grassland of the Darujos whispered of conflicts long past. The Glimerwash flowed to the east, fed by the glacial melts and winding into the Mouth of Life to the North.

The people of Chan’taal were a simple but devout lot. They plied their daily crafts and toils, and prayed to Mornay for protection from the elven bandits and orcish marauders. They were largely insulated from the feud between the Radiants and the Brighthearts by the distance from Farlaen and to their minds, worshippers of Mornay were one and the same, albeit seen under different hues.

LUCIUS
It had been three years since Father Lucius Stormson was ousted from his seat in Farlaen. He remembered Varus knocking at his doors late at night with the sealed orders from Archbishop Antonio in one hand and a bag of gold in the other. The orders got him past the guards at the gates while the gold bought him passage far away from the Radiants’ purge.

The stone chapel in the Chan’taal city square, with its modest pews and simple altar were a far cry from the gilded cathedrals and marbled halls of Farlaen. However, this homely place of worship seemed far more spiritual than many of the more decorated churches that Lucius had visited in Farlaen. Streams of light shone through the stained circle of Mornay’s sun and he watched the townspeople file out into the morning.

THESA
Thesa’s journey around the Dinassi Empire, from Hoofsaw to Farlaen finally brought her to the town of Chan’taal in the south-east. She had learnt much in her travels and Mornay showed her favour in return. When she first left Hoofsaw over a year ago, she could barely manifest the simplest of orisons. Now she could call down a blast of wind from the heavens. Of course, those gifts were not given freely and they were accompanied by lessons in humility and grace.

She had spent a few months travelling with the Raven Wolves, and their leader, Branden MacTirren. His age and experience fascinated her and she could tell he was trying to hide a recent loss behind the façade of stoicism. He had only started to open up before the Raven Wolves left on another mission elsewhere in the Dinassi. She had spent the past couple of weeks attending the sermons of Father Lucius, the local priest.

Father Lucius’ sermons were different to those of Father Monroe and countless others who preached only of hellfire and the many damnations that awaited those who transgressed Mornay’s teachings. Instead, Lucius taught of kindness and generosity, of gratitude for the gifts of love and warmth which Mornay extended to all in her domain and the salvation that was afforded to all.

Father Lucius finished his sermon and Thesa saw Branden, looking well travelled, waiting at the door.

BRANDEN
When Branden first met Thesa almost six months ago, he was unsure of her intentions. He had seen many like her taken into the Sisters of Dawn, only to emerge years later as single-minded zealots and evangelists. He found it hard to believe that a young woman of faith taught by the Radiants, would travel the Dinassi so freely to learn more about other interpretations of Mornay’s scriptures.

The other Raven Wolves warmed to her company. Anastasia shared notes on their magic and even Aereck, who was slow to trust, no longer gave her cold stares. The Raven Wolves left her in Chan’taal a few months ago while they escorted a group of Ona worshippers from Shorehaven to Oldentown. However, the news that Tim brought back made Branden spare no efforts to return to the small village in the fringes of the Dinassi. He arrived the previous evening with Skathus, ahead of the other Raven Wolves.

Tim had reported news of a Radiant inquisition making their way towards Chan’taal. For years, the village lay on the fringes of the Dinassi, but something had attracted the Radiants’ attention. He had seen and heard of the devastation the Radiant Inquisitors left in their wake. The Monterone Estate in Eastcliff was in ruins after the Radiants accused the Lord of harbouring heretics. Certain members of the Radiant faction were agitating for war with Oldentown for years, and the Raven Wolves had rescued dozens of groups from persecution.

He waited until the sermon had finished and townspeople were leaving. Thesa was still there, waiting while the priest closed the Book of Light. Branden recognised the man as Father Lucius Stormson, a former figure in Farlaen who was driven out by Judge Thornton.

AURIX, ISSACHAR, BOKKI
The village of Chan’taal was only a few hours away and the three companions approached on horseback. The morning sun had started its ascent over the peaks of the Great Dividing Chain and the black mass of the Permulian Forest gave way to deep hues of verdant green. As the last bloodied strokes of dawn gave way to a deep cerulean, the three men contemplated the strange circumstances which brought them together towards that village...

AURIX
He had received a message in Oldentown a few weeks ago, during his annual visit to pay respects to Bretanny. The parchment envelope was sealed with the crimson stamp of a rose and once broken, the familiar scent of cinammon and rosewood greeted his nostrils like an old friend.

Father Lucius Stormson. Thesa. Chan'taal. Friends of the Saint must be protected. Please? -XX

Khallis was never much of an author, even after taking up the lettering lessons in the Sisterhood courtesy of the Danels. He made the effort to go visit her every few years in her chapel in Jor'daams, where she kept a shrine of Saint Feeona. However, the message made enough sense to him. There were Brighthearts in danger and his help was needed. It was just as well, for in the same week, he met Issachar Black, a renegade mage who was in need of protection from the Order for helping the Resistance and Bokki Coppersmith, the nephew of Arron Coppersmith who had a hand in the forging of his mithril shirt. Unlikey companions they may be, Aurix knew he could trust the other two. Or at least he hoped so.

ISSACHAR
While having Aurix to protect him made some sense, there was another reason Issachar joined the other two on the way to Chan'taal. Aulinair. He had received a sending from the elven mage a few days prior, that she would be in the area and his heart had skipped a beat. Maybe this time, he dared to hope.

BOKKI
It was by chance that Bokki met Aurix and Issachar. Bokki had sent plenty of dwarven crafted items in the last three years of traveling the Dinassi Empire, most of it the marked weaponry of Clan Harner. True, the blighters made a killing with their substandard weapons but they didn't have the pride in their workmanship that a true smith would. Uncle Arron was old now but Bokki spotted the undeniable workmanship in Aurix's chain shirt and the seal of Clan Coppersmith was discreetly stamped on a small mithril scale on the sleeve of the shirt. Such an exquisite armour was not given or sold lightly and it Aurix earned uncle Arron's respect enough to have that shirt made, he certainly wasn't the bad sort to travel with.

https://i.imgur.com/XYDG7TJ.jpg

The Permulian Forest

Less than a day’s ride east from Chan’taal, the ashen groves of the Permulian Forest loomed large. Many centuries ago, woodlands covered what was now the Darujos Plains but the ravages of time and climate have reduced the trees to tracts of brushland and rocks. The great forests have retreated and save the Western Woods, the Permulian Forest was one of the last tracts of forest in the Dinassi nestled in the shadows of the Great Dividing Chains.

The trees here grew alarmingly fast and were particularly resilient to the iron axes and fire. Wild animals roamed these woods and the woodsmen from Chan’taal knew better than to stray too deep. Here, the survivors of Kae’ris’ destruction and the Order’s extermination campaigns made their home.

KEYIRIS
“Vyshaan! I tell them these sort of gathering invites nothing but trouble but they insist!”
In all these years of knowing Aulinair, Keyiris had rarely seen his friend so frustrated. The dark haired wizard, usually so composed was muttering under her breath and nursed a sore spot where a low hanging branch swatted into her face. The remnants of the high magic wrought by long-dead mages lingered, preventing teleportation from functioning accurately and it seemed they were off mark.

The two elves scanned the trees for the clearing where their contact arranged their meeting. The forest here was unnatural, fetid. Something dark pulsed in the heart of the woods and the branches closed around them. It was very different from the jungles of Kiiska which they called home, where the land was sustained by a warm and nurturing energy. He looked to Aulinair and saw her tracing the beginnings of a divination, to better mark their location.

Keyiris didn’t know much about his family but his mother had told him his paternal grandfather was one of the Ul’dranim. While he didn’t share his grandfather’s brute strength or constitution, he had an affinity for fire and was quick with his hands. His talents manifested in a blend of swordcraft and magic which rivalled the ancient teachings of the bladesingers. It was a talent which particularly complimented Aulinair's own casting and they were an effective team of seekers, tasked with recovering lost knowledge for the Resistance. Their contact, a city elf named Tanelia had promised them a lead.

"They're close. Or at least she's close enough to let herself be divined." Said Aulinair. "Keep your eyes open, Key."

LETHIO
The Order of the Horrid Forest called the Permulian Forest home. From his vantage point on the mossy rock, Lethio regarded those before him with his good eye. Obaith* was perched on a branch above, his claws digging into the hard knots and hissed most uncharacteristically for an eagle of his size.

It was rare for other Resistance cells to pay him a visit. Many of them distanced themselves from the Horrid Forest, for they considered his ways too extreme.

The Kiiskans did what they could to salvage their lost pride after their failed uprising against the humans. They had once considered themselves Nai’tuhra’s foremost but were forced to find humility in defeat. Few had considered Lethio’s message of a return to the old ways, where the elves revelled in their savagery and natural place at the apex of Nai’tuhra’s hierarchy.

The survivors of Kae’ris were a hardy lot but like the Kiiskans, they clung to their antiquated notions of honour and tradition. However, tradition had failed them in their most desperate hour and now they wander as dispossessed people without a homeland.

Then there were the Gadael, the forsaken who discarded the elven ways to assimilate among the humans. They adopted human mannerisms, bastardised their culture and even mated with the apes to produce simpering half breeds. Many considered them a step away from the drow, and even the drow had the decency to breed among their own.

The elven woman in front him wore the white robes in the style of Kae’ris, which only brought out her violet gaze. Even though her platinum white hair was styed in a manner which was popular in the old city, Lethio had the impression she wasn’t truly an adherent of tradition. No matter her exotic perfumes, the lingering scent of humans clung on her.

“I sent word to others to meet us, oh Horrid One.” She said. Her voice was soft but had a hint of steel behind. “Our people once stood as one against the Bhin**. There is no reason they cannot again.”

*Elven word for hope
** Humans

Alias_Trench

2017-11-27, 11:55 AM

AURIX, BOKKI & ISSACHAR

There's a lot of RP introspection going on here. If you feel like skipping to the interactive section it will be tagged with a *****

Aurix's sleep was brief and restful thankfully. Ever since he bartered for the onyx band inlaid with tiny rubies in the city of Kiiska so many decades ago his sleep had been not entirely without nightmares but at least more efficient. If he did have one of those haunting dreams, he would wake some two hours later, clear his mind and then go back to sleep. Thumbing the ring in question he also appreciated the fact that it also supplied him with enough sustenance to avoid him needing to eat or drink. That said, he still ate a small amount of food and drank water out of habit and comfort. This morning however he felt he would go without. Folding his legs beneath him in a lotus position, Aurix began meditating to prepare himself for the day ahead but found his mind wandering instead.
This morning as they were in the hinterland near Chan'taal, Aurix reflected on this present journey, thankful for the company of both Bokki and Issachar. Though new companions, the time spent travelling on the road from Oldentown gave them ample opportunity to get to know one another and each seemed capable enough in their own right. Though generally suspicious of everyone Aurix put aside the bulk of the suspicion and focused on getting to know them and judging them by their actions. Time still had much to tell but his instincts were saying that they were alright. He wondered what they both thought of Aurix. Most would cringe at his visage, the black eyes with vivid amber irises, the draconic tattoos and the scars that were worn plainly and in open sight. Others would balk at the mention of his actual age, though he held the appearance of someone in their prime his age was nearly triple what most would believe. Still, they were here and they had managed to stay together for the past few weeks which counted for something, Aurix was sure.

The reason for the journey was another thing entirely. Aurix had maintained good relations with Khallis after the exodus from Kiiska and Feeona's demise and subsequent canonisation. She had become who she was today because of an undying love, and as an elf that would surely continue for quite some time. Khallis was a good friend, even if they did not see eye to eye on all things, and her request was just that, a request. Aurix had written back to Khallis when he got the letter

Dear Khallis,
I will go and investigate, I expect the journey will take some weeks, even on horseback. Whatever the danger is, I hope the two you named will be alright. If you have more information for me perhaps find someone to use sending, otherwise a letter for me at Chan'taal will suffice. I will send word to you when I arrive in Chan'taal.

I hope you are keeping well.

Aurix

Aurix was not indebted to or beholden her or to anyone of the Brightheart faction, though his own son had entered their fold of his own volition. Their general distrust of other religions and branding the followers of said non-Mornay religions as heretics had made engaging them in discourse more than difficult.
Aurix thought back to the few verbose theological exchanges he and Feeona had made in the few months they were acquainted and they were as mired in the same brand of monotheistic intolerance. Considering that Feeona herself was the patron saint of the faction it was really no surprise that that was the case. Still their brand of Mornay worship was much more palatable and in-line with what he knew of Mornay having been versed in the United Pantheon. That particular part had made him labelled as a even more of a heretic by all factions of Mornay's worship save for the Order of the Evening Sun, but Aurix absolutely wanted nothing to do with them considering their role in the downfall of the Resistance and Colonel Victorine Monterone's role in Feeona's demise. He had heard though that the Monterone Estate had been purged by the Radiants, for the crime of harbouring heretics. The whole theological/political situation in the human lands was getting out of hand and his mind drifted back to the words of prophecy the avatar of his own Goddess had made almost fifty years ago now. They were words he would never forget.

"I called you here to receive my blessings and to hear my warnings. The Goddess gives me visions. I see a golden sun sundering into three and they dance above a burnt forest and a shroud of smoke. A false sun, a white sun and a black sun that hangs in a white sky. I see a titan rising from a desert of bones and sand. His cruel stare casts judgment on all below and his golden hands grasps at the heavens. I see a field of dead leaves choked with red lotuses and a black bird feasts on the dead." The Spirit shuddered.

"I see more visions. I witness fire and grief. Tragedy that is yet to come and a many-coiled serpent skinned and hacked into many pieces by a shadowed knife. An angel rises from the ashes but she will take no joy in her ascension. Her cheeks forever run with tears."

From what Aurix knew, some of her words had already come to pass. The fire and grief was likely that day in the market place where the hobgoblin sniper slew Sister Elanor. The angel rising from the ashes was Elanor's ascension and Aurix believed the many coiled serpent being hacked to pieces by a shadowed knife to be a metaphor for the fall of the elven resistance, the Serpent's Fang, to the machinations of the Order of the Evening Sun. More seemed like it was yet to pass but the fracturing of the Order seemed like the beginning.

*****
Realising that he had let his mind wander too far, Aurix shook his head and refocused on his meditation and prayer to prepare himself for the day. The sky was still quite dark but being on the western side of the Great Dividing Range this area of the continent would be in shadow for quite some time. There were the slightest signs that the sun had risen when Aurix had finished his meditation. He picked himself up of the ground, dusted himself off and picked up his backpack.
"Good Morning Bokki, Issachar. Did you sleep well? We should pack up and get on our way. the Great Dividing Range will prevent us from getting much of dawn's light until later in morning and I believe it best if we continue to make our way towards Chan'taal so we arrive reasonably early. That will give us the best chance at finding this Father Stormson and Thesa"

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-11-27, 02:38 PM

Breitheamh

2017-11-27, 04:01 PM

Branden

Branden waited patiently just outside the door of the chapel, giving quick smiles and nods to the passersby who looked his way. Skathus alternated between fully outstretched and folded wings, trying to avoid cramping up from the exhausting journey from Shorehaven. Nyx had already availed herself of a large portion of the water in the well just across the square from the chapel, and was currently curled up at Branden's feet, panting heavily. Branden himself had barely caught his breath, and the grime of travel was still nicely caked onto his skin and clothes, but he quietly gave thanks to Mornay while the last of the parishioners filed out.

"Thank you for speedy and safe travels, My Lady. I pray that the rest of my fellows may experience no hardship on the road, but if they should, watch over them so they may emerge safely through it. Please protect this village from the coming storm of inquisition, and guide my path, that I may know what is right in your eyes."

He enters the chapel just as the last parishioner leaves, a young mother with a sleeping baby nestled on her breast. He gives her a warm smile, then turns to front of the chapel.

He kneels and bows his head before the altar, lightly kissing the holy symbol around his neck as he finishes, "Thine is the Glory of Goodness and Love, for all my days until eternity in your Light, Amen."

"Thesa, good to see you again," he says as he stands, "And Father Lucius Stormson, right?

I'm sorry to say I have some worrying news. There is an inquisition headed this way, and from what I've heard, it is being led by Judge Thornton."

At the last words, he looks somewhat pointedly at Lucius, hoping the older man realizes the gravity of the situation. He does not want to worry Thesa too much, she is still young and, for as long he could help her, she would be innocent. He could see her one day helping to heal the rift between the Brighthearts and Radiants, and he worried that she would be tainted by violence before that day could come.

Alias_Trench

2017-11-27, 07:15 PM

AURIX, BOKKI & ISSACHAR

"Good morning, lads," the Dwarf says as he starts an elaborate yawning and scratching session, "slept as well as can be expected, eh..." Bokki looks up at the mountains in the distance as Aurix mentions the light conditions, but he does not seem to care much. "So, eh...this Father, he...ehhhh..." Bokki rummages his pack for something to eat "he needs protection, or...? I mean, I assume he can afford our protection...? You know, just wondering..." The Dwarf gets ready to travel. "What does he need protecting from, actually?

"The thanks for protection is it's own reward" Aurix said over seriously while looking mysteriously off into the distance for a moment. He then looked towards Bokki with a mischievous glint in his eye but when he saw the look on Bokki's face he couldn't keep a straight face anymore and broke out into laughter.
"oh you should see the look on your face! Priceless!"

Aurix sobered up and then took another swig from his waterskin before putting it away and answering Bokki's question,

"In all seriousness though, the request wasn't exactly forthcoming on detail. Father Stormson and Thesa are members of the Brightheart Faction from what I gather. What they need protection from could be any number of possibilities, however the highest on my list would be the Radiants. They've been ramping up their inquisitions lately and there's plenty of bad blood between the two factions."

Aurix walked up to where his horse, Mabel, was tethered and stroked her side

"As for a reward, there is none specified, so I would say this is a lot more like an opportunity to go adventuring and you'd get a cut of anything we find."

Active Stance: Hunter's Sense - Gain Scent special ability

Crusader granted
Swordsage
Warblade

1
Crusader's Strike
Shadowstride
Mountain Hammer

2
Vanguard Strike
Deathmark
Wall of Blades

3
Douse the Flames
Cloak of Deception
Sudden Leap

4
Foe Hammer
Shadow Blade Technique

5
Tactical Strike
Moment of Perfect Mind

Plushie Arz

2017-11-27, 08:10 PM

LUCIUS
Lucius knew Judge Mordecai Thornton was a powerful figure in the Radiant faction and enjoyed Mornay's full favour. He was a tireless champion of the Dawnbringer and worked to root out heretics, abominations and enemies of the Church. He disagreed with Thornton's methods and absolutism but could not deny the man's conviction, however misguided they may be.

Aldurin

2017-11-27, 08:44 PM

Lethio stared down the woman in front of him, contemplating. Obaith turned to glare in unison, hissing menacingly at the newcomer though not attacking. Lethio found it easier to keep Obaith in line if the beast was allowed the compromise of being able to harass strangers it wasn't ordered to attack. A thing that unnerved most people that met Lethio for the first time was that his reputation didn't accurately describe his behavior. When people expected someone who acted impulsively, randomly or even insanely, Lethio proved to have a clear and sharp reason for his actions. It was just that he purposely made his actions outlandish in a way that kept people off guard. Lethio couldn't immediately tell what this Kae'ris thought of him, so decided to proceed straight to the point.

"There are reasons, child of the city." Lethio's elven had the swift and sharp cadence that carried his disdain well. "More and more of us give up and become Gadael as the years pass. Others have wasted their lives, thinking their foolish sacrifices contribute to an eventual victory against the Morning Sun. Unity against that filth is a good ideal, but a distant one." He paused to take a swig from a flask of Moonburn in his Bag of Holding, savoring the overwhelming mix of earthy flavors before he continued. "I am curious what plans go on in that ordered mind of yours, though. Even a flawed perspective can carry value, Kae'ris, so I will listen to you and your guests."

Prepared Spells for the Day:
0th: Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Mending, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic
1st: Endure Elements, Jump, Entangle, Speak With Animals, Cure Light Wounds x2
2nd: Tree Shape x2, Lesser Restoration x2, Bull's Strength, Scent (Comp. Div)
3rd: Nature's Favor (Comp. Div) x2, Cure Moderate Wounds, Mass Resist Energy (Comp. Arc)
4th: Freedom of Movement, Forestfold (Comp. Div), Iconic Manifestation (Comp. Champ), Flame Strike, Dispel Magic
5th: Death Ward, Cure Critical Wounds, Animal Growth

Ryuuk

2017-11-27, 09:16 PM

Thesa

It may have been a mistake to stay for so long, Chan'taal felt almost like her home. Larger, but she found herself expecting to see her family's small cabin when she peered to the peaks to the south. This nostalgia was tinged with guilt and warmth, but as much as she wanted to bask in it, she had to focus on what truly mattered.

As the sermon came to an end, Thesa moved aside so that the other parishers could leave, then took a seat on one of the pews. She drew a stand of prayer beads, cupped them between her hands and lowered her head.

Eyes closed, she went over the sermon again and again in her head, silently mouthing important points while lost in thought. She committed this to memory. Maybe the discrepancy was in the concept of purity. The goddess's mercy and generosity was pure. Must this purity be sought after by her flock, could it be reached? In trying to reach it a line is drawn between pure and impure, but then, what is to be done with the impure? Warmth say both... one as kindness and salvation, another as cleansing fires.

The Raven Wolf's entrance brings her back. She puts her strand away and goes to him, offering a smile and giving a kind embrace. "Branden, good to see you again!" Backing off, she goes back to the pew to gather her haversack, and listens as he speaks with Lucius.

Kvard51

2017-11-27, 11:17 PM

Hearing the exchange between Aurix and the dwarf, Issachar stepped out of his meditation. The words of magic swirled in his thoughts for a split second before burning themselves into his mind. He was ready for the day.

0 Level
Caltrops, Detect Magic, Message, Prestidigitation

1st Level
Grease (DC 21) x2, Wall of Smoke (DC 21), Blockade x2, Eyes of the Avoral, Silent Image (DC 19)

2nd Level
Sculpted Glitterdust (DC 22) x2, Web (DC 22), Invisibility, Scorching Ray x2, Alter Self

3rd Level
Bands of Steel (DC 23) x2, Extended Greater Mage Armor, Haste x2, Arcane Sight

4th Level
Black Tentacles (DC 24) x2, Wall of Sand (DC 24) x2, Polymorph, Scrying

5th Level
Teleport, Wall of Stone x2, Overland Flight

Grabbing his cloak, he stepped out of the tent, casting a spell as he wrapped himself in the cloak. Shimmering Armor formed around him for a second, then settled into his skin. He smiles at Aurix and Bokki, "Good morn, my friends.
This day excites me. Are we ready to be on our way? I wish to make contact with the elves, soon."

Greater Mage Armor (+6 AC) x20 hrs

The prospect of seeing Aulinair was almost more than he could stand. Perhaps this time I will finally find the nerve to tell her. If the opportunity arises...

happycube

2017-11-28, 03:36 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris was fidgeting, rolling the pommel of his sheathed blade over in his hand, and nervously fiddling with the hilt's wrapping. Aulinair's uncharacteristic lack of composure and the imposing woods around the two of them had put him on edge, more so than normal, and Keyiris found himself breathing deeply to steady his quivering hands.

He would always be uneasy in these woods. Even after spending more than a decade hiding among their boughs with the elven refugees from the razing of Kae'ris; their proximity to the city's ruins made for a painful reminder. He could not soon forget the fight for his first home, nor his progenitors that had died in its futile defense. Frankly, it also didn't help his perceptions that even the trees among which he and Aulinair now found themselves seemed to be twisted by some malign force, as if outwardly mocking Keyiris' internal anxiety.

Regardless of his malaise, there was a task at hand, and if Aulinair's contact could be believed, a boon to seek for the resistance. Keyiris was thankful for her presence, even if she was doing a bit more shouting than normal. He surveyed the trees before them as she did, taking a moment to ponder her comments before turning to respond.

"I will do so, though we both know it is unlikely that my own eyes will detect anything that yours will not," Keyiris' jested impassively, briefly flashing a slight smile before turning to the woods to weave his own spell.

Keyiris casts Detect Magic as he surveys the woods.

Plushie Arz

2017-11-28, 08:55 AM

KEYIRIS
Several hundred feet away Keyris could detect the signs of conjuration, transmutation and adjuration. It seemed that Aulinar managed to detect it as well and she nodded. They made their way through the thick undergrowth towards the source of the magic.

"Tanelia is well connected, to say the least. She's got stakes with the Mercantile League and even the Order." Whispered Aulinar on the way. "Sometimes, even I don't know where her true loyalty lies."

The growth parted and they found themselves at the edge of a grassy clearing. A savage one-eyed elf stood on a rock, surveying a beautiful woman with platinum blonde hair, who wore the white robes popular in Kae'ris before its downfall. Keyiris could see at least six others, acolytes of the savage druid lurking in the treelines. Above the savage elf, an eagle of great size perched on the branches of the ash tree, hissing at the woman. The tension hung thick in the air but the woman did not seem fazed.

Keyiris had heard of this group. The Order of the Horrid Forest were extremists who were shunned by the rest of the Resistance for their brutality against the humans. They advocated a return to the ancient ways, where elves practised a far more savage interpretation of Nai'tuhra's teachings which involved live sacrifices and a doctrine that taught survival of the fittest.

KEYIRIS, LETHIO

The woman bowed with flourish, a thin smile painted on her lips.

"You honour me, Horrid One but my name is Tanelia Hylun. I have seen much in my travels in the human lands." She turned to the two newcomers, "And it seems help arrives just in time."

Lethio looked to the two. They were dressed like Kiiskans, in clothes that suited the humid jungles of the far south. The woman seemed like another mage, while the man looked as if he might possess some martial talents with his longsword. Despite their civilised clothing, they seemed like elves who had not yet abandoned the traditions of their people to the humans.
"I believe introductions are in order, no? Master Lethio, meet Master Keyiris and Mistress Aulinair. I believe we have common cause against the Order."

AURIX, ISSACHAR, BOKKI
Chan'taal was close and the three companions could see the wooden fenceposts that marked fields of grain. The windmill spun on a quiet hillock and a stone chapel rose over the thatched roofs of the wooden cottages and cabins which were strewn around the town.

LUCIUS, BRANDEN, THESA
A brief look of recognition registered over Lucius and it was replaced by guarded concern. Branden had the impression Lucius didn't quite know what to make of him yet and was hesitant to reveal more without gauging his true intentions. Thesa knew that expression well. It took days before Father Lucius was convinced she was not a Radiant spy.

Lucius was about to say more but an excited voice of a child broke the silence. The child looked about seven had sandy hair and wore a leather doublet that was far too large for him. Thasa and Lucius recognised the boy as Edwin, the blacksmith's son. He yelled excited into the chapel.

"Father Lucius! There's three travellers on the road! There's a dwarf!"

Ryuuk

2017-11-28, 04:56 PM

Thesa

"A dwarf?" Childish as it was, she remembered the images she had stitched together from the stories back home. Cruel, miserly creatures, more wide than tall and covered in hair, with large, beastly arms that dragged behind them as they walked. They hid themselves from Mornay's light deep under the mountains, for its shine burned their godless flesh until they turned to ash.

Perhaps these stories, meant to keep children from wandering away into the dark, were a bit embellished. Elves weren't really guant men with leather-like skin and talons for hands, after all.

Still, she had never met a dwarf before, but could not imagine one being part of an inqusition. "Really, could you show me where Edwin?" She gathers her things before heading towards the doors. Perhaps they wanted a moment alone. Judge Thornton, it was not a name she'd heard in good light while with the Raven Wolves, they might not be staying here for long.

paradox26

2017-11-28, 04:58 PM

Kvard51

2017-11-28, 05:38 PM

"It appears we are getting close to our destination Aurix. Should we head straight for the church, or will we take rooms and ask around a bit?"

His short association with Aurix Vuthaussir hadn't yet taught him his companion's usual methods upon entering a new settlement. And as Aulanair approved heavily of the Wanderer, he wanted to make a good impression. So he asked questions whenever he could. Ask good questions and listen for the answers. Jaron of Sunnymede said that sometime in the last century, and it's good advice, I think.

Issachar turned slightly toward the dwarf, "Bokki, how many human towns is this for you, now? Have the victuals become anymore palatable? Perhaps you could cook us some of your Dwarven food sometime soon, when we get a moment to rest."

Breitheamh

2017-11-28, 11:17 PM

LUCIUS

Lucius finished the morning service in honour of Mornay, and his heart was still filled with peace and joy as he wished the worshippers farewell for the day. He could see those who were genuinely enlightened, as well as those who attended out of a sense of obligation rather than true devotion. As a couple of worshippers approached him to speak, he recognised Thesa as well as a man he didn't really know very well at all. To Branden's greeting and question, he answered, "I am indeed Lucius Stormson, my son. Word of the Inquisition is always of interest. They tend to extremes in their devotions. Judge Thornton is a good and holy man, but we have stark differences in our beliefs, while both still worshipping Mornay faithfully. I thank you for the warning. I may have to advise a few of my flock to maintain a low profile for the next few months."

Suddenly, the discussion was broken up by Edwin's arrival. A good lad, and always keen to assist the priest in his work. He also had a sharp set of eyes, which proved helpful in spotting trouble. "Thank you, Edwin. I will go out and see them when they arrive. Someone should welcome strangers into the town, and I am as suitable as the Squire, I suppose. I haven't seen a dwarf in a long time. I wonder what brings one to our small part of the world."

He turned his attention back to the man he was speaking with, whom Thesa had called Branden. "Speaking of which, what brings you here today, my son? Other than bringing word of the Inquisition, of course. You must have been travelling, to have learned of this. If you don't mind my asking, where have you come from?"

Branden gives Thesa a warm, reassuring smile as she follows the child out of the chapel. As soon as she is gone, he turns back to Lucius, his face deadly serious.

"I'm sorry, I should have introduced myself; my name is Branden MacTirren. You might know me as the Raven Wolf. I just came from Shorehaven, where I heard from a reliable source that the Inquisition is heading to this village.

He lowers his voice as he begins to speak about grave matters. "Now, I don't want to start a panic, but this is not just your standard Radiant shakedown. These are the same Inquisitors who left the Monterone Estate in ruins.

Near as I can figure, there are only two reasons they would be coming here: for you, or for Thesa, and I don't like either of those possibilities."

Alias_Trench

2017-11-29, 02:21 AM

"It appears we are getting close to our destination Aurix. Should we head straight for the church, or will we take rooms and ask around a bit?"

Issachar turned slightly toward the dwarf, "Bokki, how many human towns is this for you, now? Have the victuals become anymore palatable? Perhaps you could cook us some of your Dwarven food sometime soon, when we get a moment to rest."

Aurix scratched his chin, feeling the light stubble on his chin as he pondered the best course of action.

"It's early in the day so I would say the church should be our first port of call. We need to make contact with Thesa and Father Stormson and figure out the situation. After that we can find accommodation. It's been quite a while since I was last in Chan'taal, though it is a small town, things might have changed. We should find an inn with a stable and possibly see if we can get a farrier to check the horses. The ride to Chan'taal has been long, I'd wager their feet will need a look at."

Aurix reached down and patted the side of Mabel's neck in silent thanks. Aurix then sat back into the saddle and wiped his hand on his pants before looking at his pants and then at his chain shirt.

"oh, I just remembered. Aegis, could you please cast prestidigitation on my raiment and yourself and then continue with maintaining resistance on both of us once a minute."

Aurix returned his gaze to Issachar and Bokki as he kept Mabel's speed in line with the others.

"Does that sound good to you two?"

Aldurin

2017-11-29, 07:43 PM

Lethio's stare moved to the new arrivals, who did not impress him. In the two he saw wizards and warriors, fools who relied on blades, books and tradition during the Morning Sun's extermination campaign against the elves. But those were still dead elves when the dust settled, regardless of where they had come from. Still, these two were too clean, too orderly. When was the last time they even killed a human, assuming they ever killed one before? Maybe, it was hard to tell with civilized folk. Too quick to wash away the bloodstains out of some misguided sense of guilt or purity.

"If that cause is their destruction, of course." Lethio replied to Tanelia, before addressing the new arrivals. "Keyiris, Aulinair. If you are to come all the way out here, then I assume you know how we conduct ourselves here in this druid order. If you have a disagreement with my methods that would interfere with our cooperation, then we gain little from being allies."

paradox26

2017-11-30, 02:34 AM

Lucius looked intrigued by Branden's introduction, but disturbed by his words. "A pleasure to meet you, Raven Wolf. Your title sounds familiar, though I cannot recall much of your tale.
I am not familiar with the estate you mention, since I do not often get away from my church. But I am familiar with the more...exuberant activities of Judge Thornton and his Inquisitors. I can imagine what happened at the estate, and what could happen here if I am judged heretic and the town is accused of conspiring to protect me. Perhaps it would be better for me and Thesa to leave for a while,
until such time as the Inquisition have well and truly passed by. I would hate this village to be destroyed. And I would hate to have to fight the Inquisition to protect myself. That is something which would not serve Mornay at all. Judge Thornton is a good man, in his own way. He is just a very devoted Radiant, and they have their own ways about them."

He looked over to Thesa and said, "What do you think, Thesa? Would you care to accompany me into the wilderness for a while? It could be a few days, more likely a few weeks.
Possibly longer, depending on how badly the Inquisition wants whichever of us they are hunting. We can take the opportunity to go out into the world and do some good in Mornay's name. We will have to avoid civilisation, of course, since that would make it easier to hunt us, but I am sure there are places we can go."

Knowledge: Local to learn of Raven Wolf. [roll0]

happycube

2017-11-30, 05:31 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris nodded in thanks to Tanelia as she presented he and Aulinair, before pursing his lips at Lethio's address. When the one-eyed elf had finished, Keyiris looked to Aulinair for a moment, uncertainty further twisting his face as he puzzled over the situation.

This will not be easy.

Keyiris' hands were quivering again; he grasped the hilt of his sword firmly to hide that fact, balling his other hand in a fist behind him as he stepped forward and spoke, looking to Lethio. "I would love to debate methods with you, but neither of us would be here if we could afford to do so. Our goals are aligned," he added, shallowly bowing at the last words as he proceeded bluntly. "That said, as you have resisted quashing by the Order thus far, it seemed prudent to reach out to you regarding your operations and the source of your power. At Tanelia's direction, we are here to do so."

Keyiris breathed deeply to slow his surroundings, as he gazed firmly to the one green eye of the elf before him. Well?

Plushie Arz

2017-11-30, 07:46 AM

LUCIUS
Lucius had heard of the Raven Wolves, a benevolent band of misfits who travelled the lands helping the poor and protecting the weak from violence and persecution. He had heard rumours of their leader being a former protege of Judge Thornton but he found it difficult to believe until he saw the man himself. It was clear that this man was another follower of the Goddess himself, although he did not seem to adhere to the narrow interpretation of the Divine Light that the Radiants, and Judge Thornton espoused. Although he may not have the blessing of the Goddess' divine spells, Mornay's favour often manifested in other ways and it was evident this Branden could defend himself well in a fight.

KEYIRIS, LETHIO
Tanelia smiled and Aulinar tightened her lips. The blonde elf spoke with passion that appealed to both Lethio and Keyiris.
"Our visions may differ but our cause is the same. The Sun-lovers grew strong at our expense. They allowed Kae'ris to be sacked by Avaraxus and his ilk. They massacred our people in the Darujos and they plundered the wealth and knowledge of Kiiska. All this, we have suffered quietly and with patience. Now is the time for action."

"I have travelled the human lands and learned much of their ways. They are a simple, cruel and short-sighted lot. In the absence of a threat, they create their own and they turned their eyes on themselves. Division splits the Morning Sun, and the slightest push will start its descent."

The elves had heard of the two factions currently vying for influence in the Order. The Radiants were single-minded in their quest for purity, while the Brighthearts sought strength in numbers. They were like two arms trying to sever the other from the body they were both attached to. Keyiris was aware a number of Resistance members had infiltrated the Brighthearts and were funnelling information back to Kiiska.

"She wants to start a civil war." Muttered Aulinair, shaking her head.

Tanelia continued. "A Radiant inquisition approaches the human village in less than a day. They seek a Brightheart, who goes by the name of Father Lucius. He is just another fool, but less loathsome than most. It will not be enough to help Lucius escape. Defeat the Radiants and they will escalate. War between the Radiants and Brighthearts will allow our people to reclaim our strength and pride from the void left by the Order."

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-11-30, 12:29 PM

Bokki

Bokki traveled mostly in silence, closely observing his surroundings. He never was any good at chit-chat and too often found himself saying the wrong things at the wrong time. Humans can be so sensitive about proper social conduct...

"It appears we are getting close to our destination Aurix. Should we head straight for the church, or will we take rooms and ask around a bit?"

His short association with Aurix Vuthaussir hadn't yet taught him his companion's usual methods upon entering a new settlement. And as Aulanair approved heavily of the Wanderer, he wanted to make a good impression. So he asked questions whenever he could. Ask good questions and listen for the answers. Jaron of Sunnymede said that sometime in the last century, and it's good advice, I think.

Issachar turned slightly toward the dwarf, "Bokki, how many human towns is this for you, now? Have the victuals become anymore palatable? Perhaps you could cook us some of your Dwarven food sometime soon, when we get a moment to rest."

Bokki smiles at the mage. "Ohhh...I would not know, I have lost count. Many places I have been had few dwellings and quite shoddy architecture. Does that count as town?" It seems a sincere question. "But, the Human shortcomings in building they make up for in their cooking. I like it quite a bit. Us Dwarves have a more militaristic approach to eating, I guess. Stale bread, a roast and a proper dose of ale is good enough for us. Good fresh food is hard to come by in large quantities when you live in a mountain. Don´t think you´d like it much."

Aurix scratched his chin, feeling the light stubble on his chin as he pondered the best course of action.

"It's early in the day so I would say the church should be our first port of call. We need to make contact with Thesa and Father Stormson and figure out the situation. After that we can find accommodation. It's been quite a while since I was last in Chan'taal, though it is a small town, things might have changed. We should find an inn with a stable and possibly see if we can get a farrier to check the horses. The ride to Chan'taal has been long, I'd wager their feet will need a look at."

Aurix reached down and patted the side of Mabel's neck in silent thanks. Aurix then sat back into the saddle and wiped his hand on his pants before looking at his pants and then at his chain shirt.

"oh, I just remembered. Aegis, could you please cast prestidigitation on my raiment and yourself and then continue with maintaining resistance on both of us once a minute."

Aurix returned his gaze to Issachar and Bokki as he kept Mabel's speed in line with the others.

"Does that sound good to you two?"

Bokki follows Aurix´s lead. He seems to know what he is doing. "It makes sense, so sure."

Ryuuk

2017-11-30, 02:24 PM

Thesa

Thesa smiles as Father Lucius mentioned her name. She'd been stalling Edwin outside the chapel, rummaging through her haversack in order to, discreetly, listen in. "Ah, I must have left it inside, sorry Edwin, I'll meet them with Father Lucius" Shrugging, she goes back inside.

The thought of an inquisition destroying a place such as this because it was deemed impure still did not seem possible to her. What crimes had the boy outside commited? Still, those she had met and most trusted during her travels were of a different mind. "If you belive it prudent Father Lucius, I'll go with you." Its not like travelling by night and avoiding main roads were new to her, nor was offering her aid and gifts to those that needed them. "But..." She turns from Lucius to Branden, and continues in an almost pleading tone. "Is this really all it takes?" She tightens her lips as a hand goes to the trim on her cloak, a gift from a close friend. That may have been enough. Father Lucius though, "You preach of the teachings of the goddess that should be at the forefront. What about your words could be deemed damnable?"

Well, +9 to Listen with no ranks.

Breitheamh

2017-11-30, 02:42 PM

Branden

Branden's head whips in Thesa's direction when he hears her speak, and he sighs, pursing his lips. He wished she hadn't heard that.

"Unfortunately, Thesa, some men of dangerous ideals don't need a good reason. I protect the innocent of any race or creed, and as a result I am branded an outlaw and a heretic," he says gravely.

"I worry that Thornton may have discovered your friendship with an elf, or that he is coming for his old rival. Either way, the best way to protect this village will be to run, and if there truly is a dwarf with these newcomers the lad spoke of, encourage them to leave the way they came."

Plushie Arz

2017-12-01, 05:43 AM

BRANDEN, THESA, LUCIUS
"Me and the boys saw'em coming!" Said Edwin excitedly as he led the trio to the dirt road leading into Chan'taal. "Look!"

Branden, Lucius and Thesa saw the three mounted men approaching Chan'taal from the distance. Even three hundred feet away, they looked like an odd bunch. A dwarf, what looked like a mage and a third man with white hair and a bright chain shirt were unusual company, even in the strangest of times. They hardly looked like inquisitors.

AURIX, BOKKI, ISSACHAR
It was Boki with his keen sight who saw them first, almost three hundred feet away at the entrance of the village. A young woman, an old man and a grown man stood in front of the road, waiting.

paradox26

2017-12-01, 07:52 AM

Lucius answered Branden with a nod, then added to Thesa, Ï think i tbest for us both to make ourselves scarce for a time, Thesa. I could likely fight off the Inquisitors, possibly with the exception of Judge Thornton, but it would be a tragedy and sacrilege for the Chosen of Mornay to kill each other. I know that sounds odd, considering what they would do to us if they catch us, but that is unfortunately the way things are at present."

He studied the newcomers as they arrived on the scene, and as Edwin announced their arrival. He favoured the boy with a slight smile. "Your sharp eyes are a credit to you, Edwin,
and a blessing from Mornay." The newcomers seemed an interesting lot, and he would have wanted to meet them even if he did not have to do so in order to advise them to flee the Inquisition. He stepped forward and raised a hand in greeting and benediction as they approached. "Greetings, travellers, in Mornay's blessed name. Welcome to our humble village of Chan'taal.
May I ask your business in this area, so we may help you to achieve what it is you seek here better?"

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-01, 09:21 AM

Bokki

Bokki points in the distance. "It seems we´re being expected..." Unless this fact alarms Aurix for some reason, Bokki travels on unconcerned.

Alias_Trench

2017-12-01, 09:30 AM

"I guess the church can wait" Aurix noted as Bokki pointed out the waiting trio standing in the road.
As they approached within 30 ft the elder male stepped forward and raised a welcoming hand

"Greetings, travellers, in Mornay's blessed name. Welcome to our humble village of Chan'taal. May I ask your business in this area, so we may help you to achieve what it is you seek here better?"

Aurix dismounted from Mabel and stepped forward another 5 ft holding the reins. The three standing before Aurix could see the slight limp in Aurix's steps as he came to stand before them.
"Thank you for your kind welcome, my name is Aurix and I hail from Oldentown, these are my travelling companions Issachar and Bokki" Aurix gestured to Issachar and Bokki respectively before continuing,
"We've come to Chan'taal seeking a Father Lucius Stormson and a wandering scholar by the name of Thesa, would you happen to know of them?"
As he spoke Aurix looked over each of the humans standing before him, assessing them for trustworthiness as was his habit whenever he met a stranger.

Sense motive for a hunch
Branden [roll0]
Thesa [roll1]
Lucius [roll2]

Plushie Arz

2017-12-01, 04:16 PM

Ryuuk

2017-12-01, 05:46 PM

Thesa

The young woman standing next to the men looked on with her hands holding on to her haversack's straps. She wore a brown, woolen tunic underneath a well travelled vest and cloak, along with simple pants and light boots. She was unarmed and if at first there was a ting of disappointment in her expression, as Aurix spoke she looked suprised, then amused.

She looks over the trio, remembering all the times she was told to be wary of strangers, and all the good that ignoring that lesson had brought her. If ever there was a sign, this was one. "A pleasure to meet you Aurix, Isaachar, Bokki. Wanderer, sure, but I could hardly call her a scholar, still has too much to learn before trying to speak with any sort of authority on... anything." She steps forward. "Pardon my rudeness, but what would you do once you meet them?"

Thesa will follow suit, Sense Motive for Hunch
Aurix: [roll0]
Isaachar: [roll1]
Bokki: [roll2]

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-01, 06:15 PM

Bokki

There was some awkwardness in this encounter, but Bokki could not figure out what it was. Mistrust, perhaps....caution....genuine interest? The Dwarf, clad in plain clothes with bland colours decides to add his input to the conversation. He produces a weirdish smile, raises his hand slightly and says: "Hi." He then looks at Aurix, in a very what he said-kind of manner, but also keeps a keen eye on their surroundings. The Humans could do the talking, he´d make sure nothing untoward happens in their vicinity.

Breitheamh

2017-12-01, 06:27 PM

Branden

Branden stood with his hands behind his back, comfortably close to his bow, his body placed just ever so subtly between Thesa and Lucius and these three newcomers. He wore simple clothing of dark green and brown, and any armor he might have been wearing was underneath his outer clothes. He looked grimy, as if he had just finished hard exercise or a long journey, but he did not seem to be bothered or fatigued by it.

He gave a short whistle as Lucius greeted the trio, and in just a few moments, there were at his side an enormous wolf, nearly the size of a horse, with dark brown fur and golden eyes, obediently poised next to her master, and a coal black horse with huge feathered wings and icy blue eyes. The winged horse seemed to be staring intently at the group, as if looking into their souls.

Branden was about to speak when Thesa beat him to it, adroitly handling the situation with her quick mind and charming personality. He raised an eyebrow quickly in her direction, with the slightest of smirks to go with it, and decided to focus his attention on the newcomers themselves.

Probably not Inquisitors, he thinks. The mage perhaps could be, but Judge Thornton would be reluctant to use an arcanist if he could help it, and there is no way in hell he would ever hire a Dwarf. This man with the strange eyes, though. What is his story?

In any case, Skathus will let me know if any have corruption in their souls.

Skathus is using Detect Evil, then Detect Good.
Branden Sense Motive on Aurix only [roll0] Edit: Well, guess not.

Aldurin

2017-12-01, 07:09 PM

Lethio's hard and disapproving gaze softened as he considered the proposal. "Interesting plan. Strife among themselves would leave them vulnerable. But myself and my Order are not subtle in our actions, and our aftermath is easy to identify. Do you have a way to ensure that the Radiants blame the Brighthearts for the slaughter to come, instead of turning their focus back on the elves?"

Plushie Arz

2017-12-01, 08:02 PM

THESA, BRANDEN, LUCIUS
Thesa couldn't sense any malevolent intent from the three. Issachar and Bokki seemed most transparent of the group. Bokki seemed like he was motivated by a sense of adventure. There was a hunted look about Issachar, mixed with a sense of longing. He was looking for something or someone, but it didn't look like any of the three.

Skathus could not sense any evil from the three.

LETHIO, KEYIRIS
Tanelia swept her hands, and motes of blue magic trailed from her fingers.

"The Brighthearts are sympathetic to those who suffered from the Radiant's purges, and the two Empires are on the verge of war. Ensure Father Lucius' passage to the Ko'tetsu and my allies will do the rest. Magic and concealment will obscure your actions. I have no intentions of bringing the wrath of the Radiants onto our people."

Kvard51

2017-12-02, 12:09 AM

"Pardon my rudeness, but what would you do once you meet them?"

Issachar added the situation up in his head. Three of them, three of us. But we have Aurix. Besides, they don't look like Inquisitors...

"Lady, we would help them escape the coming inquisition of Chan'taal. An Inquisitor is on the way, looking for this Lucius Stormson and Thesa.
Our charge is to keep them safe." Issachar smiles at her in what he hopes is an encouraging manner. "So, if you know where they may be..?"

paradox26

2017-12-02, 07:18 AM

Lucius had considered playing coy with the newcomers, at least until he could learn more of their intentions. But they made those clear pretty quickly. He decided he would introduce at least himself, though he would not reveal Thesa's identity. He knew that he was clearly a priest, and in a town of this size, probably the only one. So any but a fool would make the connection. But Thesa could pretend to be anyone, and if it did turn out that these were Radiant spies, sent in advance of the Inquisition, then she would be safe. He cleared his throat quietly, then said, "Greetings to all three of you then. I am the one known as the Stormson, now merely Father Lucius. We have recently heard word that the Inquisition is on its way here. I have reasons for wanting to avoid them, since Judge Thornton and I have a somewhat strained relationship. But what causes you to want to assist me in staying away from them? I would have thought that this was merely my own concern."

He took note that one was a dwarf and another a potential mage, neither of which was favoured by the Inquisition. They could conceivably be spies, but he doubted it. The Inquisition rarely bothered with using subtlety. And these could be valued allies in hiding in the wilderness, which wasn't really his forte.

happycube

2017-12-02, 09:44 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris' mind raced with questions and possibilities; the scale of this woman's proposal was staggering! He realized he had been staring at her wide-eyed for several seconds after her exchange with Lethio had ceased, and jerked his head to look once more to Aulinair, a pained look creasing his brow as they locked eyes. She didn't like the plan; neither did he, but it sounded oh-so-fitting. He looked once more to Tanelia, and all the questions came flooding back.

Can she be trusted? Is this a trap? What if her information is bad? Why had we not heard of this? Did Aulinair know without telling me? Who is this "Lucius"? If...

One line of inquiry stood out above the rest, one that merited pursuit more than any of the others. When Keyiris spoke, it was with a tone of earnest concern, first to Tanelia, and then to the gathered circle. "Even if our actions now help to precipitate such conflict, what consideration has been given to the Order’s successor? While we all seek vindication for the Order’s atrocities, we must ensure that whatever remains after the dust settles will be friendly to our own cause; any victory will be meaningless if a lasting peace cannot be reached."

Alias_Trench

2017-12-02, 09:35 PM

AURIX
He had the impression that the bowman was someone who cared deeply for those around him and was trying to conceal some kind of personal tragedy. He seemed like a devout follower of Mornay but unlike many Aurix encountered in his long journey, he did not seem bothered by those who looked different.

The young woman was filled with devotion and curiosity. She had an innocence around her and it was clear Mornay had blessed her with her divine favour. She seemed to share some sort of connection with the Goddess but did not appear to be a slave to dogma, unlike many others.

As for the old man, he was dressed in the garb of a priest and it was clear he put up a reserved and aloof front for those he was unfamiliar with. He seemed trustworthy enough however, and both the bowman and the young woman stood around him protectively.

Lucius was a high ranking priest who supported the Brighthearts and was exiled from Farlaen. The records were stricken and Aurix hadn't heard much of his accomplishments. He was one of the few who spoke in favour of Feeona's canonisation. The Brighthearts lost much of their influence in Farlaen after Lucius' removal from power.

He had heard tales of a wandering scholar by the name of Thesa who could deliver Mornay's favours without prayers. It was a power similar to that displayed by many members of the Sisters of Dawn. However, Thesa was not aligned with the Sisters or the Radiants. Her gifts made her especially valuable.

Chan'taal was a small village on the edges of the Dinassi Empire. Its isolation and small population kept it out of the minds of many petty lords and priests vying for power in the Empires.

Aurix watched their interaction play out before him, there wasn't much that his eyes and sense missed. The bowman was silent standing slightly in front of the other two, hands behind his back, seeming to project a protective stance. He whistled and before long a large brown wolf and a winged horse of black appeared beside him, the latter staring at Aurix and his companions appraisingly. Yes, protective stance indeed. The woman on the other hand projected a curiosity, devotion to Mornay and innocence. There was disappointment there on her face but as he spoke that look changed to surprise, then amusement. She too stepped forward and spoke as if she knew Thesa but Aurix could see that this woman was blessed with Mornay's favour and she shared a pure and simple connection to the goddess in a similar manner that he recalled a number of Sisters of the Dawn having. She bore no symbols marking her as such and Aurix surmised that she was probably Thesa herself. Aurix thought to confirm but then thought better of it as he caught a raised eyebrow and a smirk from the bowman in his peripheral vision. The elder gentleman looked a bit younger than Aurix's age, or at least if Aurix had aged like other humans. He held himself in a reserved and aloof manner.

Issachar for his own credit had put two and two together from the information Aurix had provided him and answered the proffered question that the young woman asked with what Aurix strongly suspected. Whether or not it was an intelligent deduction or a gambit to elicit information Aurix couldn't be sure but the Elder man confirmed Aurix's suspicions of a Radiant Inquisition and presented himself as Father Lucius Stormson.

He cleared his throat quietly, then said,
"Greetings to all three of you then. I am the one known as the Stormson, now merely Father Lucius. We have recently heard word that the Inquisition is on its way here. I have reasons for wanting to avoid them, since Judge Thornton and I have a somewhat strained relationship. But what causes you to want to assist me in staying away from them? I would have thought that this was merely my own concern."

"It concerns an old friend of mine, Khallis of Jor'daams. She sent me a message in Oldentown naming yourself Father Lucius and someone named Thesa" Aurix addressed Lucius but briefly brought his gaze to the young woman when mentioning Thesa, since she 'knew her' before returning his attention to Lucius. "as 'Friends of the Saint' that must be protected. I suspected a Radiant Inquisition and came at once. Seeing as you know of the threat, what are your plans and what can you tell me about this Judge Thornton?"

Aurix left the fact that he could already see that they had some form of protection in this bowman and his bestial travelling companions unsaid. Besides many claws made for light work, or so the saying went in his home tribe.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-02, 10:00 PM

LUCIUS, THESA
Lucius and Thesa knew Khallis of Jor'daams was an elven priestess of Mornay who was said to be among one of Saint Feeona's closest supporters. Khallis is a senior figure of the Brightheart leadership and she is largely respected by the lay members of the faction, particularly the half-elven citizens in the Ko'tetsu who lent their support to the Brighthearts after Emperor Flavian's decree.

LETHIO, KEYIRIS
"The Order's conflict will herald a return to the natural state, before their ascension. Our people can reclaim the lost lands stolen from us. We find strength in our unity while the humans will be weakened by their strife. We will once again be in a position to cultivate whatever allies we need to aid in our cause, including any successors to the Morning Sun. Even now, our people stand on the precipice of extinction. The high elves are gone and if the Order continues its current path, we will surely follow."

Tanelia's words were persuasive and even though Keyiris could sense Aulinair's displeasure, he could not deny the appeal of Tanelia's proposition. The elven people had been in decline for centuries, and the last six decades only accelerated the downfall of the old elven empires. The cities of Kae'ris and Kiiska, the twin jewels of the north and south were dulled and their proud people were either forced to live under the puppet rule of the half elves, or find sanctuary wandering the wilderness. The tales told by his mother of mighty heroes, soaring feats of high magic and incredible feats of faith seemed like stirring the ashes of a distant memory.

Breitheamh

2017-12-02, 11:08 PM

Branden

After a few moments, the winged horse ruffled his right wing, and Branden visibly relaxed. Then he spoke up for the first time in this meeting.

"Judge Thornton is a Radiant of deepest conviction. He combines tactical cunning with unwavering determination to purge the world of those he believes to be enemies of Mornay. The fact that his beliefs in that regard are horribly misguided makes him the most dangerous threat I have ever faced." He stiffens as he delivers this speech, holding back the strong emotions that he has on the subject of Thornton

"As for our plans, I only just arrived here myself, flying from Shorehaven where I received the same news as yourselves, albeit from a different source. I do not know this Khallis, but it would seem that our goals are aligned at the moment. I am Branden MacTirren, sometimes called the Raven Wolf." he finishes by smiling, stepping forward, and stretching out a hand in the general direction of the trio.

Ryuuk

2017-12-02, 11:31 PM

Thesa

Despite the apperant gravity of the coming threat, Thesa smiles at Issachar and continues to play coy. "Well, I'm sure they tend to be near the chapel at this time." This was immature, she knew, but with Branden and his companions watching over, she doubted any harm could come of it.

Father Lucius proved to be more straightforward with the new trio. She could see Aquilla's narrowed eyes, shaking head and hear the muttered elven profanities in her head as Lucius spoke, but she had to trust his judgement.

That was twice now that Aurix's words had changed things. He seemed to have caught her and played along, this was about the right time to cooperate, but make note. She was well known now? That was new. Her tone becomes much more respectful. "It is humbling to be considered a Friend of the Saint by Khallis of Jor'daams... I just wish I knew how she deemed me worthy."

"My name is Thesa, my apologies. It is strange for strangers to seek one out by name and offer the same warning as friends." She speaks to all three but to Issachar in particular as she asks forgiveness.

happycube

2017-12-03, 07:50 AM

KEYIRIS

Doubt and excitement rushed through Keyiris' mind in equal parts. He had never dreamed to have a hand in such a decision, yet here he was. How many would suffer in the ensuing conflict, if they acted as Tanelia asked? How many more would be spared from the cruelties of the Order? The impact was incalculable. Keyiris found himself momentarily thinking back to his days among the libraries of Kae'ris. Perhaps the archmages of old from his mother's stories would have been able to properly analyze such a scenario, but even that was wishful thinking; the naïveness of a child with much yet to learn. A child whose home yet stood. In that moment, he knew his mind was made up.

Outwardly, Keyiris looked perplexed, staring at a point somewhere behind Tanelia's eyes as she spoke. When she had finished, he turned to Aulinair once more, speaking to her in a low voice.

"What are your thoughts, Auli?"

paradox26

2017-12-03, 08:38 AM

Lucius considered what he had been told. He decided that he should trust in these people to at least some degree, though he was reluctant to bring Thesa into it with him, in case it was a trap. But if she was wanted as well, then there was little alternative, and they would be better off travelling together. Besides, between them and Branden, they should be able to fight off this group if they did turn out to be Inquisition spies.

He spoke up after Branden, saying, "What young Branden here says is true. Judge Thornton is a hard and difficult man. He and I are well known to each other, but we have never been counted as friends. There are several words that could discuss our relationship, but friends would not be one of them. As for our plans, we had intended to keep the village safe by leaving for a time,
and going out into the wilderness. Going to other towns would simply lay a trail for the Inquisition to follow us. And might I add, you would do well to leave this place before the Inquisition gets here as well. They do not look favourably on magic users of dwarves."

Aldurin

2017-12-03, 05:16 PM

Lethio straightened and softened his expression, the harsh gaze gone. He didn't think the fine details of the plan would go as Tanelia wanted them to, but that wasn't necessarily bad. He turned to the other members of druid circle, speaking in druidic with a chipper tone. "I'm off to go kill more humans. Good luck to those of you who are going to do the same."

Dropping down from his ledge, he approached the three elves while signaling Obaith to stand next to him. The beast was more than willing to oblige, recognizing Lethio's attitude before a hunt. "I'm willing to test this alliance today." Lethio resumed in elven. "What do you know about this inquisition force?"

Plushie Arz

2017-12-04, 06:09 AM

DM: +1500XP to all!

LETHIO, KEYIRIS
Aulinair frowned, deep in thought at the proposition.

"Tanelia makes many promises but we're no better facing the Order alone. We've done that for the last fifty years and it's gotten us nowhere. If her way gives us a chance to restore our people, then it might be worth it"

* * *

"The humans are led by one called Mordecai Thornton. An old man, but a powerful agent of their sun goddess. He is accompanied by his band of inquisitors. Twenty in all, with five capable of magic. They travel as a group on horseback and are less than a day from the village. I suggest we wait until they are within range of Father Lucius before we strike."

Kvard51

2017-12-04, 09:33 AM

Thesa

Her tone becomes much more respectful. "It is humbling to be considered a Friend of the Saint by Khallis of Jor'daams... I just wish I knew how she deemed me worthy."

"My name is Thesa, my apologies. It is strange for strangers to seek one out by name and offer the same warning as friends." She speaks to all three but to Issachar in particular as she asks forgiveness.

Nodding, Issachar smiles at the young girl, "It is a humbling experience when we discover we are considered by the powerful in the world, is it not?
I have recently learned this same lesson, but only the 'hunted' side of it. You have important friends, even if you do not know them."

Turning to Aurix and Bokki, Issachar says, "Perhaps we should remove ourselves from the road and into a more defensible position while we discuss this? Perhaps I should contact Aulinair and have her pass the news that we have found them on to your contact, Aurix?"

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-04, 01:39 PM

Breitheamh

2017-12-04, 03:50 PM

Bokki

Bokki listened with interest to the whole exchange. Humans have such complex societies, so many organizations that have ties or oppose one another. And weird names....who can remember all those names? Bokki, Gilli, Hallygg, Heikki...those are proper names. Any way, it was clear to him that the threat perceived by those around him was serious.

"Do we expect this judge, ehm, Stormthorn...horn...somewhat immediately?" the Dwarf interjects. "If so, I agree we ought to move off the road. I also suggest you find a place to finish your discussion while I keep an eye on the road so I can give you a timely warning when mister Thoren...sen arrives. My knowledge on the affairs of the Inquisition is limited, so I won´t be of much help doing talking, but count me dedicated to help you evade it!" While he has no clue what this judge looks like, he is confident he can spot a (self-)important man traveling down this road.

Branden

"Thornton, master dwarf," Branden corrects Bokki's stumbling over the name with a smirk. "Based on when I learned of his coming, I would guess we have maybe a day before the Inquisition arrives. He has about twenty inquisitors with him, and several of them wield divine power.

I agree that we should try to stay off the main roads and away from villages as much as a possible. We can't give the Inquisition any reason to hurt innocents."

happycube

2017-12-04, 10:21 PM

KEYIRIS

Giving a solemn nod to Aulinair, Keyiris turned again to the others, ever more questions burning in his mind. "Will this 'Lucius' be useful in today's fight? If so, we must contact him, lest our intentions be unclear and we find ourselves in a three-way combat," he quickly explained, looking to Tanelia with an addendum. "I presume then that you have accounted for the duration of any spells to be cast by the Order in determining the proximity of our ambush to Lucius' present location?" Keyiris asked, his voice a monotone aside from the final word, barely distinguishing his query from a presumptuous comment.

A twinge of pain shot through Keyiris' wrist, and he glanced down to see the knuckles of his offhand white from his death grip on the blade at his belt. He wrenched his hand from the hilt, shakily grasping at his other fist behind his back as he settled into an awkward pose of feigned poise.

Alias_Trench

2017-12-05, 06:41 AM

Aurix moved to close the distance and went to shake the extended hand that the Bowman, now to be known and Branden MacTirren. As he moved closer Branden, Lucius and Thesa could now clearly make out Aurix's features in detail. The white hair stood out clearly from a distance and drew attention but what would have looked like eyes with liberally applied eyeliner were actually solid pools of black where the whites should be and amber gold irises that in contrast shone like a champagne moon in the night sky. A large red tribal script was inked onto his forehead and similarly shaped script graced his uncovered arms and wove their way around and across multitudes of scars unbroken. Aurix for his own part was taking note of their scents as.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance Branden, Father Lucius and Thesa."

Issachar and Bokki both advocated for stepping off the street "Yes I agree we should move off the main road to continue our conversation. Would you mind leading the way to somewhere we may conclude our discussion"

Turning to Issachar as they walk, Aurix continues.

"If you have a reliable way of contacting Aulinair so that we may relay a message back to Khallis that would be most helpful however we should figure out what our plans are before we send a message."

Turning towards the rest of the party

"I agree that we should move to evade the inquisition and given the fact they will be here within the day as Branden has estimated we should move swiftly. How much time will you need to prepare for our departure? That said I am concerned about the residents of this here town. The Radiants have shown that they're not opposed to burning parts of wherever they're purging especially if they're not cooperating with their inquisition. I do not know the people here as you do, Thesa and Father Lucius, but is it likely that they will resist the Inquisition?"

Plushie Arz

2017-12-05, 08:32 AM

LUCIUS, BRANDEN, THESA
Thesa: [roll0]
Lucius: [roll1]
Branden: [roll2]
Aurix's black and gold eyes did not occur naturally among humans. The Divine Light contained passages attributing such features to those who were tainted by the touch of Ni'Kote or the Ancient Evil. Although those who were afflicted were not automatically evil, it was said they had a propensity for dark magic and struggled against their own nature.

Lucius was aware of further passages from the Divine Light which were struck out by various Sols over the centuries of the Order's history. Such passages were referred to in the heretical teachings of Archbishop Márton Kisma, the founder of the Order of the Evening Sun. Kisma had claimed Mornay and Ni'Kote had shared an incestuous bond before unification in the Age of Heroes, and such a coupling produced a mortal child who was gifted with the powers of both light and shadow. This child, known as the Blacklight Heir, was said to have produced a line of descendants who shared his powers and had the same eyes of black and gold. However, the Order dismissed Kisma's claims as heresy, leading to the purge of the Archbishop's followers.

LETHIO, KEYIRIS
"I have accounted for the humans' spells. We are not the only ones with grievances against the Radiants. They have made many enemies over the years. Still, it will be prudent to let Father Lucius know of your arrival and I'm afraid my skills in that regard have been expended for the day."

Lethio and Keyiris had been carefully watching Tanelia since she started speaking and her latest admission confirmed their suspicions that she was not an arcanist who studied to master their arts, but rather a sorceress whose arcane talents came innately.

MEANWHILE...
Even though his knees crackled in protest at the hours on horseback, Judge Mordecai Thornton held tightly onto his saddles and felt the morning wind on his face. The sun was peeking over the Great Dividing Range and the village will soon be within riding distance. It was on mornings such as this that he felt the sting of his age most sharply. The strength of youth had ebbed away from him years ago, leaving joints aching and muscle wasted. It was the way of the Goddess, to take away a blessing and give back a boon. Although his body weakened, the years of experience etched into his soul and his divine connection only grew stronger. Every day, he gave thanks for his humble existence as a servant of the church. "The purest light casts no shadows. Goddess, fill me with your eternal radiance."

He had been riding for four days now, since his agent brought news of Father Lucius' location. Brother Phillis had been most accommodating with his restorative prayers and they made the long journey from Shorehaven much more tolerable. While many other Radiants would have requisitioned teleportation spells from the Mage Council, he himself preferred the journey on horse. It was unpretentious and reliable, quite unlike the fickle trappings of magic enjoyed by the apostates. He had learned to only trust what he could see and hear himself, and preferred justice to be dealt out that way. After all, it was only fair for a man who passes judgment to deliver the sentence himself.

He bore Father Lucius no ill will as a fellow servant of Mornay but the disturbing evidence of heresy and apostacy must be answered. He had heard rumours of heathen and false prophets populating the villages and towns on the fringes of the Dinassi Empire, forcing their corrupt teachings on impressionable minds. These wayward souls would in turn, ally with the vile goblinoids or worse and take up arms against the Empire. Already, the inquisition had been waylaid by goblinoid warbands who wielded weapons supplied by the Brighthearts. He knew those simple creatures were incapable of trading for such arms, and they were clearly forged in the Kot'etsu by the Emperor's smiths. How convenient such creatures learned to target the Inquisition on their way to Chan'taal. Father Lucius and his supporters will have much to answer for.

happycube

2017-12-05, 06:38 PM

KEYIRIS

"Unfortunate," Keyiris sighed to Tanelia, his voice heavy with a mix of disdain and disappointment.

Still apparently unsure what to do with his hands, he tugged momentarily at the edge of his dark cloak, pulling it slightly around him before crossing his arms and bouncing once on the balls of his feet. Momentarily satisfied with his posture, he looked quizzically to Aulinair and Lethio. "Unless you are able to do so, we must make haste in joining mister Lucius," he says, a small smile turning his lips on the word 'haste'.

Aldurin

2017-12-05, 10:26 PM

Lethio simply smiled and climbed up onto Obaith, who sat down to better help the debilitated elf get on his back. Once he settled in, he offered a hand to Keyiris. "He's stronger than he looks, so he'll have no problem carrying an extra person or two. You'll love the view you get of humans panicking when you're up in the sky." Obaith took a moment to ponder why they weren't taking off, then turned to look directly at Keyiris and Aulinair so it could emit an impatient squawk.

So with 40 lbs from the barding, 158 lbs from Lethio and 115.5 lbs from Keyiris, Obaith can still fly with a light load. Unfortunately he'll only have less than 40 lbs of carrying capacity within that category, so if Aulinair joins we'll be traveling slightly slower unless we expend strength or speed buffs.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-06, 08:28 AM

KEYIRIS, LETHIO
"No, I'm fine thanks." Said Aulinair evenly, eyeing the overgrown eagle warily. She muttered words to a spell of flight and her feet rose from the ground. Obaith did not return the affection and hissed, revealing rows of diminutive teeth behind its beak and a hooked tongue.

The village of Chan'taal was little under a day away from the Permulian Forest on foot but the trio made swift progress in the air. Tanelia had given them instructions to wait in the outskirts of the village, out of sight and observe. Aulinair was to contact Father Lucius and should the priest attempt to leave, they are to offer their aid. Should the Radiants approach, they are to deploy their spells to delay their advance, but not to engage them directly unless in the priest's company.

The thick canopy underfoot started to thin and they flew over the banks and clear waters of the Glimerflow. The village was in the distance.

BOKKI
Spot Check: [roll0]

While Thesa and Lucius led others to the small chapel in the village square, Bokki kept watch. He kept an eye out for Branden's animal companions, the she-wolf and black pegasus that seemed to follow the bowman everywhere. Bokki had never had an affinity for animals himself. The giant cave pigs in the mountains usually ended up on a platter and it was usually the children who kept small animals as pets. At least he could talk and drink with other people. Animals avoided him anyway. He stayed outside the chapel, his eyes on the roads and skies for signs of trouble.

In south-eastern skies above the forest, he saw a winged creature far larger than any bird he knew making its descent. He was reminded of the rocs back home, who made their nests in the stony peaks and preyed on unwary travellers. This winged creature was at least several miles away from the village and at the current distance, he couldn't make out enough details to determine exactly what it was.

paradox26

2017-12-06, 09:32 AM

Lucius was dismayed to hear of the strength of the inquisitorial force that was coming after him. He knew that he was a high value target for the Radiants, but he didn't think he was worth sending twenty men, including five spellcasters. He would probably be unable to take them all down on his own, especially as they were led by a man whose power matched his own. "Of course,
we should move this discussion inside. Not into the church, of course. We must not go into such a holy place to discuss avoiding members of Mornay's Inquisition. We should go into my quarters behind the church, where we can speak out of people's hearing."

He started to lead the others towards the rear of the church to his small house. As he walked, he said conversationally, "I can be ready to leave at very little notice. A few minutes to gather my equipment, then a few minutes more to tell someone that they should care for the church until my return, and the reason for my departure. Actually, it would be better for the villagers if I do not say why I am leaving. It will upset the Inquisitors less. We will also definitely have to avoid towns and villages, though it should be possible for those of us the Inquisition is unaware of to enter for provisions as needed. Still, it must be kept to a minimum, and totally avoided if possible."

Ryuuk

2017-12-06, 06:11 PM

As Aurix presented himself, Thesa's eyes widened. One touched by the Ancient Evil, yet in service of one such as Khallis of Jor'daams. A dwarf fresh from under the mountains, a hunted spellcaster... The deviant practices of the East stood before her, trying to decide how to best avoid the inquisition. Mid morning on the open road was hardly the place for a shadowy conspiracy though. Despite their words, she felt no fear for what they might do to her, no corruption grasping at her core. At least, not yet. The goddess had placed her here and now, she could only guess to what ends. She had faith in her path though, it would all be clear in time. She only committed this meeting to memory, to look over when time allowed it.

As the others spoke, Thesa aided in leading the group. Would Chan'Taal confront the coming threat?
"The inquisition is a far off idea here, at least as far as I can tell." Also one she had not witnessed with the feriocity of some of the others here. "They are followers, but not the kind to correct another's ways. The goddess is kind and merciful, a light in the dark and bringer of warmth. If you believe that, you share their faith... I don't want them to have to defend this before anyone, they have done nothing wrong."

"I'm carrying everything I could need, would you like some help Father Lucius?"

Breitheamh

2017-12-06, 08:08 PM

Branden

Branden follows Lucius and Thesa toward the priest's quarters, his mind running through the possibilities once Thornton reached Chan'taal.

"I think, maybe..." he starts, unsure if he should even consider the idea. "Maybe we should instruct the villagers to tell the Inquisitors exactly where we're going. It would be unwise to fight them head on, but we have to out run them anyway. We can leave false trails through the countryside, but the villagers will be safest if they just tell Judge Thornton where we've gone."

Alias_Trench

2017-12-07, 08:39 AM

"What is wrong and what is right is more often than not a case of perspective. While we may believe no wrong has been done by those who worship plainly and simply, to many of those who follow the Dawnbringer's philosophy, to err even slightly from the path that she dictates as a divine representative of Mornay is heresy." Aurix replied with a frown. Thesa was optimistic but perhaps also somewhat sheltered. She was not old enough to have seen the atrocities the Order had committed as part of their quest, for what they thought was right. It was just as well that the populace of this town followed Mornay as far as Aurix was aware. If they coveted any other god the Radiants would see to it that they no longer did one way or another.

"That is a reasonable idea Branden. If the townsfolk were to say they knew nothing and it was the truth the Inquisitors would still likely believe their behaviour to be protecting Father Lucius. Thus it could protect the townsfolk from the inquisitions more heavy handed methods of extracting information. The added benefit of being out in the wilderness is if they were to catch up with us it would lessen the collateral damage if an altercation were to occur there. Father Lucius, you need not say why you're leaving but at the very least if you tell the townsfolk where you are going then they should be safe - I have no specific instructions on where to take you two, but I would advocate for Oldentown as the safest place. If you have any particular requests however please speak your mind."

After Father Lucius and Thesa went about preparing themselves Aurix turns to Issachar

"Issachar, while Father Lucius and Thesa make their preparations we should make contact with Aulinair. I've been thinking over a message to send to Khallis and I think I've got a reasonable idea but I'd like your opinion, after all you'll be the one to relay it to Aulinair. Aegis, parchment and charcoal please."

The shining chain shirt on Aurix's torso glowed briefly and a crude piece of parchment and an artificial looking piece of charcoal appeared in Aurix's hands. Aurix then began scratching out a short message before handing it to Issachar.

'Friends of Saint found. Moving to evade Inquisition. Please advise of any specific instructions. Otherwise we will travel to Oldentown. Aurix and co.'

"Obviously, if Father Lucius and Thesa have a particular objection to travelling to Oldentown and another destination is chosen the sending should reflect that. But aside from that... What do you think?"

Ryuuk

2017-12-08, 05:50 PM

They had experience in what they were doing. Thesa knew as much from her time with the Raven Wolves, but Aurix did not seem far behind. They had lessons to teach if she payed attention, and was willing to acccept them. "Oldentown? If it is for the best, sure." It was further east, she was sure of that much, at least. The next stop on the journey, this was exciting, despite the circumstances.

She places a hand on her chest, lowering her head in a short suplication. "Please guide me," Her other hand draws her holy symbol, a finely crafted disc bearing Mornay's sun, as she continues, her eyes now closed. "Please guide me and grant me a fraction of your wisdom." She pauses, taking a deep breath and trying to find something that could be important, that might be useful.

Knowledge rolls are in the OoC

Plushie Arz

2017-12-08, 07:07 PM

THESA
The Independent City of Oldentown stands defiant as one of the last bastions of tolerance and freedom in Sundara. It sits in the shadows of the Dinassi and Ko’testsu Empires and is bordered by the Great Dividing Chain to the east, and the Mouth of Life to the west. Originally a small trading town, the city grew rapidly after the Second Darkstar War and now almost rivals the capitals of Farlaen and Ar’leenos in its splendour, if not in history.

The city was built around the great docks and ports which opened to the Mouth of Life. Here, ships from both empires and beyond conduct trade away from the taxes and bureaucracy. The old historic part of the city is situated around the plazas and town squares which abut the docks. A twenty foot tall wall of stone separates this area from the newer districts to the south. The buildings in this district are far less uniform. Although they roughly adhere to the gridlines of the streets and irrigation canals, terraces are built next to taverns and adjoin large tracts of open space and greenery. Warehouses, markets and guildhalls are scattered around the unplanned neighbourhoods.

Oldentown was a haven for refugees fleeing the persecution in the Dinassi and Ko'tetsu. The people of the city lived in a community which had little regard for faith or piety. It was a place where dangerous ideas and heresies festered. It made the city prime recruiting grounds for members of the Factum, the elven resistance and other degenerate cults who paid tribute to dark powers. The Radiants had wanted to put a stop to it for years, but were unable to attain enough support from the Farlaenean Assembly or the Church.

happycube

2017-12-09, 05:18 AM

KEYIRIS

Accepting the mounted elf's proffered hand, Keyiris climbed up behind him atop the massive avian. With some difficulty, he seated himself, and his thoughts soon drifted to other places. Once they were airborne, Keyiris found himself gazing longingly at the horizon, towards where he knew the ruins of his once-home lay.

Shame that Stormson had not sought refuge closer to Kae'ris; it would be poetic justice for an inquisitor to fall among the ruins of elven civilization...

Keyiris felt his pulse quicken in anticipation as they approached the village in the distance.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-10, 04:19 AM

LUCIUS, BRANDEN, THESA, ISSACHAR, BOKKI, AURIX
A dirt road linked Chan'taal to Brightwall to the west, and Shorehaven to the north. The south and east were practically impassable, even on foot and Branden knew the rest of the Raven Wolves were making their way from Oldentown through the north-east. If Judge Thornton was approaching from Shorehaven, there was a not insignificant risk they may cross paths. Still, going further west would only lead them deeper into the Dinassi Empire, and Radiant territory. There were other inquisitors with reputations for cruelty and shrewdness and they will be all too happy to claim credit for Lucius' capture.

LETHIO, KEYIRIS
The elves started descending a mile before reaching Chan'taal's borders. It was far too easy for a creature of Obaith's size and appearance to be spotted and Tanelia left instructions to watch for signs of Father Lucius and his company leaving the village. Two dirt roads led out of Chan'taal. One to the west, which would lead deeper into the human lands, and one to the north, which would snake around the ruins of Kae'ris before reaching the Mouth of Life. The east and south were impassible territory, being the Great Dividing Chain and the Permulana Forest.

paradox26

2017-12-10, 07:42 AM

Lucius considered the suggested direction of travel, and could see no better idea. "I am not sure if we should enter a town. If we do, then Oldentown is as good as anywhere else.
But avoiding civilisation entirely reduces the number of eyes that could be following us. I am not used to the wilderness, however, so I will struggle out there on my own. I am very much a man of the city."
He closed his eyes for a moment, and sought Mornay's wisdom. She did not reply, however. He figured she must be displeased at the dispute between factions of her own church. He would have to come to the decision on his own. And if those who were sent to guard him were sure that they should go to Oldentown, then perhaps that was Mornay's willl and guidance made manifest.

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-10, 02:59 PM

Bokki

The bird´s approach was not necessarily a threat and its arrival was not imminent. Bokki decided to make a mental note and stay put to keep an eye out.

Breitheamh

2017-12-10, 07:14 PM

Branden

"The road to the north is probably the safest, as long as we can avoid contact with the Inquisitors, who are likely coming from that direction. And Oldentown is not the sort of city the Inquisition will be able to threaten. Besides, my crew will be coming from that direction, and reaching them will give us some new options as well."

Aldurin

2017-12-10, 07:20 PM

Lethio looked for the tallest of the trees within view of the town, guiding Obaith to land. Once perched at the highest branch that could hold the eagle, he turned to Keyiris. "So, what story was yours when the Order came for our land? I might not look it but I'm probably a decade or so younger than you, so I'm curious about where you come from on this matter."

Alias_Trench

2017-12-11, 02:27 AM

"You won't be on your own unless you get separated from the group, Father Lucius. I suggested Oldentown as a safe place to head to begin with. It is likely that we will need to journey to Jor'daams thereafter, since the request to protect you came from there but I would really like to get word to Khallis before we journey out. If we were heading straight to Jor'daams normally I would go straight over the Great Dividing Chain on my own but I don't think such a route would be appropriate, thus my suggestion of Oldentown first. I feel like going west is out of the question, unless we wanted to travel the long way around to Oldentown via the Southern Jungles and the Ghorani Desert. Using the road North would be fastest and look less suspect but if we meet the inquisition on the road, there will be no avoiding them. The alternative to that is to have an advanced scout who can send up a predetermined dancing lights code after they encounter the inquisition to warn the rest of the party to get off the road. Knowing that you have allies on the road to the North is also reassuring Branden if you can somehow get in touch with them to rendezvous. If we are very keen to avoid the inquisition all together I would suggest travelling east towards the Permulian Forest and travelling just within the treeline and following the treeline north nor east, this is slower and not necessarily safer as the forest has it's own dangers. After we cross the Glimerwash it's a straightforward journey to Oldentown. This way we also avoid most of the settlements along the way, but make sure you pack enough rations. It's a long journey."

After saying his piece Aurix popped his head outside

"Bokki, any sign of the inquisition? What do your dwarf eyes see?"

happycube

2017-12-11, 04:46 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris' eyes went wide, apparently startled at the sudden request after the long flight in silence.

Small talk; my nemesis…

He stammered for a moment, as if finding his mental footing, then pushed forward. "It is not much of a story," Keyiris conceded with the tone of someone who has told their sad tale many times. He pointed to the horizon, gesturing with a somber look in the direction of the ruined city. Closing his eyes, he spoke with the coolness of a recitation, flatly repeating words that were not his own as though from some manuscript in his mind. "I served in the last army of Kae’ris, the same as my parents before me and my mother's before her. At the time of the fall, my studies pointed me along the path of a blade mage, the same path I follow today. When ruin came for us, I was under orders to shelter with those I could gather on the edge of the Permulian Forest, and so I did. In our time there...er, here...circumstances conspired to prevent any further movement from the woods, and for years my own skills languished as I lived among the refugees; the talents of a blade mage are ill-suited to such an existence.

"Roughly thirteen years I spent in exile, merely surviving without any trace of organization, as stories reached us of the Order's brutality toward our kin. We thought ourselves powerless to help, but safe in our isolation. Only near the end of the siege of Kiiska did word at long last reach us of their plight, revealing the true extent of the Order's treachery. Once again, I had purpose. And yet, for all my spells, I was unable to reach the city in time to contribute in any way to its defense, though--" Keyiris cut off abruptly, as though suddenly closing the book only he could see. He opened his eyes and looked to Aulinair with a curt nod; she knew this story well. Keyiris then turned to address Lethio, tilting his head to the side.

"Does that suitably answer your query, or would you like to probe my early childhood as well?" he asked earnestly, unconsciously raising a hand to the fine golden chain tucked into his shirt.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-11, 08:17 AM

DM: I'm momentarily taking control of Issachar to move things along.

THE PARTY
The group decided to take the northern trail towards Oldentown. They helped Lucius pack his meagre possessions and after leaving word of his departure to one of the villagers, they took the dirt trail northward.

The green and brown expanse of grassland swept in front of them, punctuated by the odd clumps of blue and red wildflowers. The autumn sun cast its hues over the land and the skies overhead were a clear shade of turquoise, broken only by patches of wispy grey cirrus clouds.

Spot Checks
Aurix: [roll0]
Lucius: [roll1]
Nyx: [roll2]
Branden: [roll3]
Issachar: [roll4]
Bokki: [roll5]
Thesa: [roll6]

They were roughly twenty minutes away from the village and the ground ahead rose into a pair of two slight grassy hills. The road snaked between the hills. Thesa, Bokki and Aurix spotted a group of six men standing roughly two hundred feet away in the middle of the road, facing the village. They wore frayed leather armour and banded mail, and carried an assortment of clubs, a chain, axes and a bow. They certainly didn't look like villagers or inquisitors but they had the appearance of hard men, who lived violent lives. Bokki and Thesa saw what looked like dried bloodstains on the leather tunic of one of the men, as he spat onto the ground.

THE ELVES
Aulinair stayed out of the exchange between Lethio and Keyiris. She seemed to take the approach of focusing on her own thing and maintained spells of flight and what Keyiris and Lethio recognised were a response to a sending spell. When she finished, she looked to the two.

"They're heading north on a dirt trail. There's a group of them and they plan to head off into the wilderness, away from the Inquisitors"

Alias_Trench

2017-12-11, 10:36 AM

"Looks like we have some ruffians ahead of us." Aurix stated out loud while astride Mabel. "They look to be expecting someone, are they friends of yours?" Aurix said turning to Branden, Thesa and Lucius.

Breitheamh

2017-12-11, 11:21 AM

Branden

"No one that I know," Branden replies as he quietly slips his bow out of its tube and strings it. He whispers in Skathus' ear, and the black pegasus huffs in response, his piercing blue eyes starting to glow as he begins to look at the souls of the men before them.

Skathus has activated Detect Evil, and after he gets a read on the men, will use Detect Good as well.

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-11, 01:32 PM

Bokki

EARLIER

When Aurix came out to enquire about Bokki´s observations, the Dwarf nodded. "There´s a big bird. Giant, perhaps, flying over there in the distance," he states matter-of-factly while pointing in the direction of the bird. "Looks to be coming this way."

NOW

Bokki releases a soft sigh. "Great." He spits on the ground while assessing the situation. "They´ll have seen us as well." He looks at Thesa and Lucius: "This could get messy. Be careful." Then, to Aurix: "Do we want to jump them, or leave the initiative?"

Ryuuk

2017-12-11, 07:14 PM

Thesa

Thesa had been enjoying the sights the road could bring, and she looked at the men in a similar manner to another oddity in the distance. "One of them has dried blood on his tunic. If it's not from an animal, then I often heard men like them mentioned in prayer back in the village... 'Please protect me from danger on this journey.' 'Let my husband come back safely.'" She spoke matter of factly, watching them, until Bokki speaks to her. She nods, and moves to the back.

Perhaps these prayers were being answered. "Should we call out to them?" A hand goes to her holy symbol, just in case.

The other, after some consideration, waves at them.

Aldurin

2017-12-11, 07:34 PM

"I don't need to know much of that, just curious about what the humans took from you. It's not well known but I used to be an initiate in the Order of the Eternal Forest. Nice folk, but their complacency did them in when we fought against the Morning Sun. Got half my scars during the battle, and had to find new priorities on my own." Lethio replied, stroking Obaith's neck feathers. The eagle seemed to relax slightly, but still emanated a violent energy. "That soul-searching went on until I found this guy, who gave me the other scars in the fight to assert dominance. He's rowdy as hell, but between the two of us I've seen results against the humans I could only dream of when I was younger." There was the softness of nostalgia in his posture, a glimmer of inner peace that he quickly suppressed.

When Aulinair reported the location of Father Lucius, Lethio frowned. "Foolish, city folk run low on options when outnumbered and out of town. I hope this human we're supposed to protect has some sense of survival." He sighed, and signaled Obaith to ascend from the tree. "Might as well get the introductions out of the way." Once clear of the top of the forest, he flew them north towards the terrain Aulinair indicated.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-12, 07:15 AM

THE PARTY
As the group deliberated among themselves, the group of men stood there, brandishing their arms and waiting. They didn't make any overt movements towards the party but stood waiting, as if they knew the group would make its own way over.

paradox26

2017-12-12, 07:38 AM

Lucius slowed as he studied the group they were approaching. Finally, he said to the others, "We might as well keep going towards them. They know we are here. I can be of some help in this, I am sure. I am able to read minds of the unguarded, though I have to get considerably closer before I can do so. Let us proceed. I am not much use in crossing rough terrain, but I do have some ability to defend myself, should such become necessary. So none of you should have to help to defend me, should a fight come, and I pray to Mornay that it doesn't. That said, of course I am not goint o stand toe to toe with them, should such a fight begin. I will stay at the back. Fighting is a young person's game, and I am a bit beyond that sort of thing these days." Despite saying that, he reached down and took hold of his small mace. It was made of a shiny material, and was engraved with holy symbols devoted to Mornay.

He started to walk forwards, though he stayed to one side of the road, so that he could duck into the cover of the trees if the bowman opened fire on the group of travellers. As he walked, he called upon Mornay to protect him, and he felt a barrier fall upon his shoulders with the lightest touch, as if he were wearing a shirt made of elven silk.

Lucius will use the Inertial Armour psionic power to boost his armour class.

Kvard51

2017-12-12, 10:12 AM

The armed men in the road, weapons in hand, gave Issachar pause. He always preferred to avoid violence. Sometimes though, it seemed violence didn't prefer to avoid him.

"Give me a moment to ascertain any magic they may be using before we close the distance between us, Aurix." Issachar says in a quiet voice. He begins to speak in the language of magic and his eyes glow blue as he stares intently at the group ahead.

Cast Arcane Sight on himself (10 minutes), study the group in the road as we close within 120'

Alias_Trench

2017-12-12, 07:43 PM

Definitely not friendly then Aurix thought to himself.

Aurix's face darkened slightly as he began seriously considering their tactical options. Placing themselves in the middle of a road between two hills made their intent rather obvious. They had given themselves somewhat of a disadvantage by putting themselves between two hills as any melee fighter could give themselves the higher ground if needed, but they could also use that to their advantage. It would have made more sense to him for them to ambush people as they made their way through this small pass, but it was always possible there were more hiding out of sight. Bokki addressed Aurix while he was thinking

"I think we'll see what their intent is. It seems rather obvious but it serves goodness well to ask questions first. I'm relatively confident that we can defend ourselves from them if it comes down to it. We already know they're there but maybe keep your eyes peeled for an ambush, there could be more hiding in those hills. If you want, I can get behind them quite easily and set up a flank with you and take down their leader."

Aurix continued assessing and addressed members of the party accordingly

"Branden, you're a marksman, keep your eyes on the one with a bow and take him out first if we come to blows. Issachar, if you detect any spellcasting let me know which one and us close range fighters will take him down first, otherwise, as you know your spells better than I do, you do what you deem best for the situation. Thesa, you're unarmed, I'd like you to stay back. Again I'm not sure what you're capable of but I can sense your connection to Mornay, like Issachar you do what you deem best for the situation. Lucius, what you have said seems appropriate"

Aurix's mood lightened considerably as responded to Lucius' assumption that fighting was a young man's job

"but age is just a number"

Aurix continued up the path astride Mabel, taking point but keeping her walking pace so that he was just ahead of Lucius and Issachar, so he could be a physical barrier between them should things come to blows. Aurix stopped 50 ft from the men and addressed them.

"Good morning."

Plushie Arz

2017-12-13, 05:31 AM

Plushie Arz

2017-12-13, 07:45 AM

THE ELVES
Obaith flew Keyiris and Lethio high above the skies, past the outskirts of the town. It was easy to follow the dirt road that led out of town. The area around was mostly flat plains broken by shrubs and stunted trees. It would be difficult for Father Lucius and his companions to hide from their sight.

"There they are!" Aulinair's voice was little more than a whisper but the winds carried them over to Lethio and Keyiris' ears.

Six hundred feet below, the road snaked between two hills and the elves saw a man matching Father Lucius' description with five others and three horses being accosted by another group of armed men who blocked the path forward. Lucius' companions were an odd group. One of them appeared to be a dwarf while one of the humans rode a black pegasus. Lethio and Keyiris recognised that only the pure of heart would be accepted by such magnificent beasts. Keyiris remembered the stories he heard of great heroes trying to secure the friendship of the pegasii as mounts and failing. The creatures were powerful scions of benevolence but they were chose their companions carefully.

They also saw movement in the hills, out of sight of Father Lucius' group. Men cloaked in browns and greys notched their bows and slings just over the hills. It seemed that Lucius and the others were being led into an ambush. These men didn't look like Inquisitors but they could very well jeopardise Tanelia's plan.

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-13, 10:14 AM

Bokki

Bokki recognized this situation. This was when you are required to say something smart, but perhaps not the truth. He could never pull that off, so he decides to keep his mouth shut. Instead he grunts under his breath, clearly showing his companions his displeasure with the situation, and scans the environment for potential ambush.

Do you want to roll the spot/listen checks, Plushie? I am fine either way. Spot +19, Listen +14.

Ryuuk

2017-12-13, 03:45 PM

The one touched by the Ancient Evil seemed adept at this. Assessing the situation, coming up with a plan, handing out orders... Thesa does as he says, keeping back and looking over the situation. She was to act like Isaachar, who's eyes now glowed.

For a second time today, a group of strangers was after Father Lucius, but there was no good intent in this group's gestures and jeers. The looks made her grimace, to call them beast-like would be an insult to Skathus and Nyx, like depraved animals.

She tightens the grip her holy symbol and brushed aside the discomfort. The words and acts of lost men were nothing in the grand scheme. Whatever they claimed their intent to be, she gave more thought to whatever greater purpose they might serve, and tried to rise to it. "If that is the case, I know some who could live like kings." She speaks to the appearent leader, trying to do so in a calm and collected tone.

"Pardon our rudeness, but we have to keep going, we have a lot of road to travel."

Alias_Trench

2017-12-13, 07:13 PM

THE GROUP

https://i.imgur.com/WTCt1Dy.png

"Mornin' travellers!" Hailed their ringleader, a man in his thirties who wore a red leather tunic and had his brown hair coiffed back. He carried a cruel looking greatclub with nails driven into it. "Nice day for a walk eh?" His lackeys jeered. A large bearded man rattled his chains.

Skathus felt a faint aura of evil around the six men in the middle of the road. Issachar could immediately sense moderate auras around the ringleader, and on his lackeys. In particular, the club and chains had the strongest traces of magic.

"You wouldn't know of a certain Father comin' round these parts would ya? I hear he's old and full of crazy ideas." The group could feel the ruffian's attentions turning to Lucius who was down the back. More than several pairs of lecherous eyes also passed over Thesa. "I hear folks will pay alot for crazy ideas these days."

Aurix had found in days gone past that it was best to meet people like this either at their level or well and truly flummox them. He was not skilled at the latter and neither very good at lying or intimidating people despite his appearance, so he opted for the former and misdirected the question. Dismounting from Mabel he walked forward a good 15 ft making sure to fix his gauntlets and in the course of doing so flex his muscle. Walking forward also got him in range for his shadow step manoeuvre and blocked the bowman's line of sight of Issachar.

"It is indeed a fine day. I am a father, I'm older than you know and people would accuse me of having crazy ideas. Am I the one you're looking for?"

AC
FF
Touch

23
21
18

Reflex
Fort
Will

12
13
14

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

94+9 temp

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

cold 10 (immediate action)

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Resistance
+1 Resistance bonus on saving throws
1 minute
(will determine in OoC how many rounds
remaining when initiative starts)

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Active Stance: Hunter's Sense - Gain Scent special ability

Crusader granted
Swordsage
Warblade

1
Crusader's Strike
Shadowstride
Mountain Hammer

2
Vanguard Strike
Deathmark
Wall of Blades

3
Douse the Flames
Cloak of Deception
Sudden Leap

4
Foe Hammer
Shadow Blade Technique

5
Tactical Strike
Moment of Perfect Mind

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Standard - dismount

Move 15 ft

J:20-J17

Aldurin

2017-12-13, 08:49 PM

Excitement surged through Lethio when he saw the current situation his target group was in. Whether or not they were the inquisition, they were threatening Father Lucius so he'd get no real trouble for making a mess of these ruffians. Before Keyiris or Aulinair could voice a reaction to the sight of the ambush, Lethio cast a spell on Obaith and flatly spoke a single elven word. "Kill." Guided by Lethio, Obaith immediately plunged down towards the group of possibly-bandits. With a wicked smile on his face, Lethio shouted to Keyiris to be heard over the wind. "Time to have some fun!"

Casting Nature's Favor (Comp. Div 170) on Obaith, granting him a +5 luck bonus to attack and damage rolls for 10 minutes. Then directing Obaith to double move down towards the group of NPCs (should be 240 ft total).

Kvard51

2017-12-13, 11:57 PM

Ducking a little to better hide behind Aurix, Issachar pulls a licorice root shaving from his cloak. Intoning words of magic again, he begins to cast a spell.

cast Haste on Aurix, Bokki, Nyx, Skathus, Branden, and himself (10 reds)

As the party feels the magic of speed settle into their bones, Is whispers loudly to Aurix, "Spiked club and chain are magical. Nothing else of note is visible."

Breitheamh

2017-12-14, 12:28 AM

Branden

Branden had remained quiet while Thesa and Aurix spoke, silently taking stock of the situation. Given how confident the leader of these bandits seemed while facing a group of equal number with the advantage of mounts, he figured there were probably at least a few others in hiding, likely in the grass up on the hills. He gripped his bow a little tighter at the feel of Skathus' left wing fluttering slightly; that was the signal for evil hearts.

He feels the magic settle on him, as Nyx and Skathus shiver at the sensation, and leans back in his saddle to speak quietly to the others. "These men's hearts are tainted with evil; keep alert for anyone else, likely on the higher ground." As he says this, Skathus directs his sight toward each hill in turn to see if there are evil auras there as well.

After scanning the hills, Skathus tenses his hind legs and prepares to take off at the first sign of trouble, while Branden readies himself for violence. The ranger speaks up after Aurix, "You may find, sir, that most of us here have crazy ideas, and the guts to defend them. So you might ask yourselves just how much these crazy ideas may be worth to you."

paradox26

2017-12-14, 07:30 AM

Lucius paused as the others started to prepare for combat. He was now within range, so he turned his attention to the leader of the ruffians and tried to read his mind. If it turned out that they were to fight regardless, then it would at least be helpful to know whether they were just random thieves, or if they were sent by the Inquisition or some other form of organisation that could be coming for him. He didn't know of any other group that would be after him, but he was fairly well known, and it wouldn't surprise him to know that he had crossed someone somewhere along the way. He focused his mind and turned it's blast onto the man, hoping to break through his mental defences and see what his intentions were, with the particular hope that he would learn of the man's master, if there was one. He found himself hoping strongly that there was no such master, but he didn't hold out much hope of it.

Casts Read Thoughts on the leader.

happycube

2017-12-14, 08:29 AM

KEYIRIS

This will have to do.

The pegasus was a good omen, Keyiris had no doubts about that. Their course of action would be clear should the obstructors make any move to attack one in the care of such a beast. Even so, Keyiris' already-quick heartbeat intensified to a pounding rhythm, and he mentally reevaluated the distance to the ground on each beat. Judging the remaining distance, he wove a shielding spell around himself; a simple one whose incantation would not be disrupted by the fervent descent of the massive eagle to which he clung.

"Better tactically to engage the flankers, but better for introductions if we engage the visible opponents," Keyiris asserted flatly, pointing to the respective groups and leaning to Lethio as he spoke just loudly enough to be heard above the whipping wind. His body was poised for a fight, anticipating the rush of his signature spell.

Keyiris casts Shield on himself, automatically passing the DC 16 Concentration check for violent motion from Obaith's rapid descent.

Ryuuk

2017-12-14, 11:43 AM

If there was evil in their she could keep it away. "May your will stay evil intent.". Once the recitation is complete and her hand goes to her chest, Thesa basks in the warmth brought by the blessing. Still, this was not the time, now to stay near Father Lucius.

If still possible, casting Magic Circle Against Evil before initiative, should affect anyone while they are 10ft from Thesa.

Copying Alias's format.

AC
FF
Touch

23 + 2 if evil
21 + 2 if evil
20 + 2 if evil

Reflex
Fort
Will

7 + 2 if evil
9 + 2 if evil
14 + 2 if evil

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

0
0
62

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Magic Circle Against Evil
As Protection From Evil in 10ft emanation centered on self
100 minutes

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Standard - cast Magic Circle Against Evil

1 second level spell cast
1 third level spell cast

Plushie Arz

2017-12-15, 05:49 AM

THE GROUP
The ringleader was weak of mind and Lucius could sense the greed and arrogance which underlay the man's actions. Bokki could hear the sound of cloth-wrapped feet moving under the hills and bowstrings being stretched taut. Skathus similarly stamped his hooves, in warning.

It was Issachar and Thesa's spellcasting which broke the standstill. Archers emerged from the hills, pointing their bows at the group. In a single moment, the travellers were outnumbered almost three to one.

"Oh that's how it is eh?" Sneered the ringleader, hoisting his greatclub by the handle. He pointed at the group and shouted to the hills. "Keep the girl and the old man! Kill the rest! We might as well get some sport for our troubles!"

Aurix and Branden noticed a large eagle descending rapidly from the skies in the north. It was a horrid-looking bird, with matted feathers and a wild look in its bloodshot eyes. The ruffians did not seem to notice its descent and as it approached, Branden could see two elves riding on its back. He also saw an elven woman with dark hair and grey robes alongside the bird, carried by some sort of flight spell. They were some four hundred feet away in air but they were making their way over rapidly.

https://i.imgur.com/UUhgIcZ.png
Initiative:
Ringleader: [roll0]
Chain Man: [roll1]
Swordman 1: [roll2]
Swordman 2: [roll3]
Bowman: [roll4]
Ruffian (: [roll5]
Archers: [roll6]
Aurix: [roll7]
Lucius: [roll8]
Branden: [roll9]
Skathus: [roll10]
Nyx: [roll11]
Thesa: [roll12]
Bokki: [roll13]
Issachar: [roll14]

Elves are 160' away, out of the immediate area of the map
Lethio: [roll15]
Keyiris: [roll16]
Obaith: [roll17]
Aulinair: [roll18] (action taken)

AURIX
Aurix recognised the woman as Aulinair, a seeker in the elven resistance. She was among the second generation of rebels who sought to recover the stolen knowledge from Kiiska. She grew up under the reign of Kiiska's puppet regime and was far too young to have taken part in the events of five decades ago, or to have remembered the legacy of the Old Council. Aurix knew she was not as powerful as Lerethi, Shenra, Calthera or Macrae, but it was hardly her fault. Many of the more capable spellcasters in Kiiska no longer took on apprentices or were willing to aid the resistance. Despite her lack of formal training she was still a capable spellcaster who was yet to find her specialisation.

paradox26

2017-12-15, 08:15 AM

Lucius read the man's mind just as it became moot through his spoken reaction to the small group. He saw the bowmen appear on the hills to either side. He was concerned at the appearance of bowmen, since they could hit him at a distance, but he was at least a little relieved that they wanted him and Thesa taken alive. That would be to their cost, since he could act even if captured. But he was free now, so he decided to act fast. He turned his mind once more onto the leader, and focused his power against the man's mind. He didn't like fighting, but it was something which wasn't entirely alien to him either, since he spent several years on the road as an adventurer. He decided to try to make the man's head explode, to make a powerful signal as to what they small party was capable of.

Lucius casts Cranial Deluge to make the leader's head explode. If that man is already dead, then he will aim at the man with the chain. DC is Fort 22.

Ryuuk

2017-12-15, 05:38 PM

As things devolve, Thesa tries to make sense and keep track of the actors on both sides. She remembered Aquila's talks, about the chaos that could ensue during the war. If you hesitated, if you held back, you were dead. These men were far from the light's grace, impure without a doubt, but... they were still people. They'd argued about this, not everyone would listen to reason or pleading. If she was not willing to return force in kind, then she'd best stay away from it. She'd conceded that, but now with archers bearing down and sneering men willing to kill her allies and enchain her and her current teacher, she wondered if she would have to cross the line.

She moves to shadow Father Lucius, keeping him within the blessing, and prays for the best path to show itself.

Move: Follow Father Lucius, keeping him within the circle. EDIT: As per paradox's post, moving to E20

If Branden or Father Lucius are targeted and recieve 20 or more damage:
Heightened (4th level) Hold Person (DC 21 Will) on whoever did it.
If 4 or more enemies are clumped within a 10-ft.-radius spread in range of 50ft, with no allies in the area:
Heightened (4th level) Sound Burst (DC 21 Fort)
If Thesa can percieve that the man with the chain was dominated by Lucius:
Heightened (4th level) Hold Person (DC 21 Will) on Swordsman 2
Else:
Heightened (4th level) Hold Person (DC 21 Will) on the man with the chain

AC
FF
Touch

23 + 2 if evil
21 + 2 if evil
20 + 2 if evil

Reflex
Fort
Will

7 + 2 if evil
9 + 2 if evil
14 + 2 if evil

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

0
0
62

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Magic Circle Against Evil
As Protection From Evil in 10ft emanation centered on self
100 minutes

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Spells Cast:
1 2nd Level
1 3rd Level
1 4th Level

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Move: to E20

Standard: Cast spell as per the above 'if, else' statement

Alias_Trench

2017-12-15, 08:32 PM

Aurix
As soon as the leader of the bandits spoke and the men on the hills made their appearance Aurix lept into action. In his peripheral vision he could see Bokki too had also begun moving but his focus was on taking off the head of the snake in front of them. He shifted stance, a steely look entered his eyes before jumping through his shadow and appearing before the ringleader
"If you want them so bad you'll have to pay a price yourself"
Aurix then executed his deathmark manoeuvre and struck at the ringleader. His right fist struck true right in the solar plexus. The ringleader gasped in pain as suddenly fire erupted from his body also singeing his allies who stood to either side of him but leaving Aurix unburnt.

AC
FF
Touch

24 (+1 Haste)
21
19 (+1 Haste)

Reflex
Fort
Will

13 (+1 Haste)
13
14

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

94+9 temp

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

cold 10 (Immediate action)

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Pearl of Black doubt
Cumulative +2 to AC for each melee attack that misses for until start of next round
persistent

Resistance
+1 Resistance bonus on saving throws
7/10 rounds

Haste
+1 dodge AC +1 Attack rolls +1 Reflex saves
1/10 rounds

Solitary Warrior (Bullybasher's)
+1 to Bullybashers and +1d6 damage if adjacent to 2 foes and no allies within 30ft.
persists if conditions met

Knowledge Devotion
+1 to hit and damage against Humans (K Local Roll 7)
duration of combat

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Active Stance: Hunter's Sense - Gain Scent special ability

Crusader granted
Swordsage
Warblade

1
Crusader's Strike
Shadowstride
Mountain Hammer

2
Vanguard Strike
Deathmark
Wall of Blades

3
Douse the Flames
Cloak of Deception
Sudden Leap

4
Foe Hammer
Shadow Blade Technique

5
Tactical Strike
Moment of Perfect Mind

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Swift - Change stance

Pearl of Black Doubt
Each miss against Aurix raises his AC +2

Move - Shadowstride Manoeuvre (Ex)

teleport up to 50 ft
J:17-L:9

Standard - Death Mark Manoeuvre (Su) with Bullybasher's Gauntlets (Solitary Warrior Active)
[roll0]Edit: +1
Crit confirm
[roll1]
[roll2]Edit: +1
[roll3]
[roll4]
B & Magic, Fire
Death Mark damage spreads in 10ft burst from target. K8 and O8 both affected
DC 18 Reflex save for half of the Death mark damage

Aldurin

2017-12-15, 08:38 PM

Lethio cast a spell and concentrated on aiming Obaith. Unfortunately the leader was in the front of the group, so he couldn't be dived while also having a landing position that cut off enemy retreat. So he directed towards one of the men at the rear of the group in the open. Obaith ended up crashing towards the poor fool, attempting to make its landing on top of the person with one of its talons, now dripping with acid. As the eagle landed, Lethio had a killer's glee in his face, savoring the reactions of everyone that turned to look at his entrance.

Delaying initiative to be behind Keyiris.

Casting Bull's Strength on Obaith, granting +4 enhancement to Strength for 10 minutes. Obaith makes a dive attack at the person at N-6, landing in the 2x2 space from O-6 to P-5.

Attack roll: [roll0]
Damage roll: [roll1] Base + [roll2] Bane + [roll3] acid damage. I don't know how much of this is affected by the damage doubling from making a dive attack, so I'll leave that up to you to decide.

Lethio's Spells:
0th: Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Mending, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic
1st: Endure Elements, Jump, Entangle, Speak With Animals, Cure Light Wounds x2
2nd: Tree Shape x2, Lesser Restoration x2, Bull's Strength, Scent (Comp. Div)
3rd: Nature's Favor (Comp. Div) x2, Cure Moderate Wounds, Mass Resist Energy (Comp. Arc)
4th: Freedom of Movement, Forestfold (Comp. Div), Iconic Manifestation (Comp. Champ), Flame Strike, Dispel Magic
5th: Death Ward, Cure Critical Wounds, Animal Growth

Alias_Trench

2017-12-16, 01:04 AM

Ringleader, Chainman, Swordsman 2, Bowman

Ringleader [roll0]
Chainman [roll1]
Swordman L [roll2]

The fire that blasted from the ringleader courtesy of Aurix barely singed him but after the fireball dissipated what was left was a furious man. The chain wielder also managed to dodge out of the way with no harm but the swordsman caught in the blast got a little bit singed. Almost literally fuming the Ringleader roared and a fury entered his eyes. Though he the same height as Aurix he also cut an imposing figure, more so with the fury that currently lay in his eyes. The man with the spiked chain took a step to the side and swung while the ringleader also hefted his great club and tried to hit Aurix, both trying to take advantage of his potentially lowered guard. The Swordsman also charged in to join the dogpile and swung his greatsword while the bowman beside him loosed 2 arrows towards Skathus.

Ringleader

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Free - Rage

Full round - Full Attack
Attack 1
[roll0]
Crit confirmations
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
B & Magic and precision

Attack 2 (-5 to hit)
[roll5]
Crit confirmations
[roll6]
[roll7]
[roll8]
[roll9]
B & Magic and precision

Chainman

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

swift - 5ft step

Standard Action - Attack
[roll10]
critical confirmation
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]
[roll14]
P, Magic, Precision

Swordsman 2

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Move - Charge

-2 AC
O8:M8

Standard - Attack
[roll15]
Critical Confirmation
[roll16]
[roll17]
S

Bowman

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Full round - Full attack
Attack 1
[roll18]
Critical confirmation
[roll19]
[roll20]
P, Magic

Attack 2 - Rapid Shot
[roll21]
Critical confirmation
[roll22]
[roll23]
P, Magic

Aurix deftly dodged the swings of the Ringleader, his stance slowly sewing doubt amongst the minds of his attackers but the chain wielder recognised the effect and adjusted his swing, lashing Aurix down his bad leg. A guttural yell escaped from Aurix's lips as the enchanted chain ripped his at his flesh. A sickening smile could be seen on the faces of the men who surrounded him. The swordsman sure he'd hit with his target swung but Aurix had kept his wits about him and quickly dodged out of the way returning to his stance but wary of the three men surrounding him.
https://photos-2.dropbox.com/t/2/AADYMt7BVD-qc41btV3j6zVBByAcJvvwDdzu4RI53rKppg/12/10217126/png/32x32/1/_/1/2/Bandit02.png/EJDP_IEEGNgBIAcoBw/_uaJIvwrWhFtTNzrU8zGJ7d4HuLYKnqVDp7upt0XNlU?preser ve_transparency=1&size=2048x1536&size_mode=3

Initiative
Aulinair: (1d20+6)[23] (action taken)
Bokki: (1d20+7)[22]
Aurix: (1d20+7)[21] Action taken
Ringleader: (1d20+3)[21] Action Taken
Chain Man: (1d20+7)[20] Action Taken
Lethio: (1d20+3)[19] - Will enter actual combat next round
Skathus: (1d20+2)[18] - Delays until Branden's Turn
Obaith: (1d20+5)[16] - Will enter actual combat next round
Bowman: (1d20+8)[16] Action Taken
Swordman 2 (O8): (1d20+5)[14] Action Taken
Lucius: (1d20+2)[14]
Branden: (1d20+7)[13]
Keyiris: (1d20+9)[13] - Will enter actual combat next round
Nyx: (1d20+2)[12]
Archers: (1d20+4)[11]
Swordman 1 (L6): (1d20+5)[9]
Thesa: (1d20+2)[9]
Ruffian (N6): (1d20)[4]
Issachar: (1d20+2)[3]

happycube

2017-12-16, 04:16 AM

KEYIRIS

Witnessing the fight breaking loose below, Keyiris' mind was instantly made up.

"We need to go faster," he stated, thinking out loud as he instinctively began to weave another spell. He felt the Haste spell wash over him, and in that moment, he was ready for the fight ahead. In the last seconds before the eagle reached its target, Keyiris drew his blade, his muscles tensing to spring from the creature's back as it struck at the nearest foe.

Swift action: attempt to cast Haste, targeting himself, Lethio, Obaith and Aulinair. Concentration due to Obaith's movement: [roll0] vs DC 18
Move action: draw longsword
Standard action: ready to dismount from Obaith once he is on the ground, then 5-foot step to O7 as part of the readied action

paradox26

2017-12-16, 06:43 AM

Although he was sure the bandits wanted to catch him rather than kill him, Lucius decided that it would be best to attack rather than defend himself. He moved closer, then he cast a power that would try to take over the mind of the man with the chain. He was outside of the ranger of his other abilities, and that was the only one which would work at this range. He was hoping that the man with the chain could be dominated and set to attacking the leader of the group. As a second thought, he expanded his use of the power to also affect the bowman who stood near the chainman, hoping to remove a threat to his own group and pose an unexpected threat to the enemy leader.

Lucius moves to G20, then casts Psionic Dominate on the chainman and the bowman in the trail. The range is 200' so there is no problem there this time. He spent an extra 2 power points to affect the second person, which also increases the save DC to Will 22. If he affects either man, he will have them attack the leader.

Breitheamh

2017-12-16, 09:53 AM

Branden

As the situation dissolves into chaos, Branden grips his bow a little tighter as Skathus takes to the air, just as the second hit the dirt where Skathus had been a moment ago. He whistles and points to the ringleader, letting Nyx know where she needs to go, then drives the point home by aiming his first arrow at the greatclub wielder as Skathus whips by, carrying him closer to his second target, the bowman who had tried to take Skathus out first. He draws three arrows and fires them off in quick succession as the archer comes into point blank range.

Nyx growls and dashes into the fray, following the path her master showed her, charging at the ringleader. Ashe reached him, her instincts took over and barked madly as she tried to bite down hard and rip the man to the ground.

Branden

AC
FF
Touch

25 (22 +1 Haste, +2 Skirmish)

18

19

Reflex
Fort
Will

17 (16 +1 Haste)

10

8

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

54

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Haste
+1 dodge AC +1 Attack rolls +1 Reflex saves
1/10 rounds

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Skathus

AC
FF
Touch

15 (14 +1 Haste)

12

12

Reflex
Fort
Will

6

7

4

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

3

34

DR

SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Haste
+1 dodge AC +1 Attack rolls +1 Reflex saves
1/10 rounds

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Nyx

AC
FF
Touch

16 (+1 Haste, -2 Charge)

13

10

Reflex
Fort
Will

6

9

2

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

38

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Haste
+1 dodge AC +1 Attack rolls +1 Reflex saves
1/10 rounds

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Branden

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Free - handle Nyx

Full Attack (1 extra attack, +1 attack, +1 PBS)

At ringleader[roll0]
Crit confirm [roll1]

At bowman[roll2]
Crit confirm [roll3]
[roll4]
Crit confirm [roll5]
[roll6]
Crit confirm [roll7]

[roll8]
[roll9]

[roll10]
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]
[roll14]
[roll15]

P and S, Magic

Skathus

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Double move

D19 to P7, 15 ft up

Nyx

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Charge attack (+1 Haste, +2 Charge

[roll16]

[roll17]

B, P, S

E16 to L10

Free - Trip attempt

[roll18]

Plushie Arz

2017-12-17, 04:26 AM

DM: Psionic dominate takes one round to manifest. They will take effect at the beginning of the next round, if still valid.

Opposed Trip: [roll0]

https://i.imgur.com/qvl7Tt3.png

Branden loosened his bow at the ringleader and the bowman who had just shot at Skathus. An arrow thudded into the leader's side but the enraged man hardly took notice of the wound which would have felled a less able man. The attack however, distracted him from Nyx's charge and the wolf scurried between his legs.

The bowman was less fortunate. Branden's arrows punched through his chain shirt, directly into his lungs. With a gasp, he fell to the ground, lifeless.

DM: Ringleader is prone.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-17, 04:58 AM

https://i.imgur.com/6aL8ixa.png

Thesa went with Hold Person on chainman. Will save: [roll0]

The archers in the hills up north lined up their shots and aimed a volley at Skathus, while those on the east took aim at Nyx and Issachar. Of the volley, one arrow grazed the pegasus (3 damage) and the wolf (3 damage). Issachar felt a dull pain on his side and his palm was wet with his own blood. (6 damage)

Meanwhile the other swordsman joined the fray and charged at Aurix. However, Aurix ducked at the last minute and the swing passed harmlessly over his head.

The chain-wielding man shook off Thesa's spell and flexed his arms, preparing for a second attack.

Seeing the group so fiercely defending the ambush, the ruffian at the rear of the group raised his hands and bellowed. One hundred and sixty feet overhead, four amber lights flashed into existence. The spell had barely left his lips before a massive eagle landed from the skies above and tore into him with a cruel beak lined with dozens of razor sharp teeth. Two elves stepped from the eagle's back - one was a horribly scarred man who wore filthy branch-covered shirt made from darkleaf and had a shield strapped to his back. The other carried a longsword and wore a black cloak over a white vest and grey leggings.

A third elf soon joined them from above. She had dark hair and light skin, and wore the practical combat robes of a Kiiskan battle mage. She surveyed the battlefield and uttered a spell of protection. A translucent globe surrounded her, protecting her from projectiles that would come her way.

Archer 1: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Archer 2: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

Archer 3: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6]

Archer 4: [roll7]
Damage: [roll8]

Archer 5: [roll9]
Damage: [roll10]

Archer 6: [roll11]
Damage: [roll12]

Archer S11 (At Nyx): [roll13]
Damage: [roll14]

Archer v16 (At Nyx): [roll15]
Damage: [roll16]

Archer T21: [roll17]
Damage: [roll18]

Archer T24: [roll19]
Damage: [roll20]

Swordsman: [roll21]
Damage: [roll22]

DM: Round 2
Aulinair: (1d20+6)[23] (action taken, cast Protection from Arrows)
Bokki: (1d20+7)[22]
Aurix: (1d20+7)[21]
Ringleader: (1d20+3)[21]
Chain Man: (1d20+7)[20]
Lethio: (1d20+3)[19]
Skathus: (1d20+2)[18] - Delays until Branden's Turn
Obaith: (1d20+5)[16]
Bowman: (1d20+8)[16] DEAD
Swordman 2: (1d20+5)[14]
Lucius: (1d20+2)[14]
Branden: (1d20+7)[13]
Keyiris: (1d20+9)[13]
Nyx: (1d20+2)[12]
Archers: (1d20+4)[11]
Swordman 1: (1d20+5)[9]
Thesa: (1d20+2)[9]
Ruffian: (1d20)[4] DEAD
Issachar: (1d20+2)[3]

Alias_Trench

2017-12-17, 09:36 AM

Aurix

Aurix ducked and weaved around the attacks that came his way. The man standing behind the throng around him bellowed, drawing Aurix's attention momentarily, he saw a brief flash of light far above and noted the 4 amber orbs that now hung in the sky. Well familiar with this particular tactic as mid range simple communication Aurix tried to remember what the colour and configuration might mean in the codes he already knew. Not as soon as Aurix looked up another flash of colour and a wet strangled scream brought his attention back to the ground as a terrifyingly large bird descended upon the caster and eviscerated him in seconds. Two elves, both male, stepped off it's back and a third, a female, floated down behind them. Aurix considered whether they were friend or foe but for the mean time his attention was returned to the adversaries before him. Branden's wolf had charged to his side and tried to wrestle him to the ground but was largely unsuccessful. Though he appreciated the assistance, her presence meant that the magic of his gauntlets would wane and wrestled the leader of the bandits to the ground. Seeing the tactical advantage Aurix struck at his prone form, Still while the man was distracted by the dire wolf Aurix struck at his form but also kept watching his other opponents for openings in their guard should his current target become incapacitated. Aegis, having been into many a combat with Aurix in the past shot a ray of frost at the man wielding a chain as retribution for him harming his master.

AC
FF
Touch

24 (+1 Haste)
21
19 (+1 Haste)

Reflex
Fort
Will

13 (+1 Haste)
13
14

Wounds (Steely Resolve)
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

83 (5) = 78

94+9 temp

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

cold 10 (Immediate action)

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Pearl of Black doubt
Cumulative +2 to AC for each melee attack that misses for until start of next round
persistent

Resistance
+1 Resistance bonus on saving throws
8/10 rounds

Haste
Extra attack, +1 dodge AC, +1 Attack rolls, +1 Reflex saves
2/10 rounds

Solitary Warrior (Bullybasher's)
+1 to Bullybashers and +1d6 damage if adjacent to 2 foes and no allies within 30ft.
persists if conditions met

Knowledge Devotion
+1 to hit and damage against Humans (K Local Roll 7)
duration of combat

Steely Resolve
Up to 5 hp delayed until end of next turn
indefinite

Furious Counterstrike
+1 to hit and damage as long as Steely Resolve has 1 hp in delayed damage pool
indefinite

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Active Stance: Pearl of Black Doubt - Melee attacks that miss increase Aurix's AC by +2 cumulatively until the start of his next turn

Crusader granted
Swordsage
Warblade

1
Crusader's Strike
Shadowstride
Mountain Hammer

2
Vanguard Strike
Deathmark
Wall of Blades

3
Douse the Flames
Cloak of Deception
Sudden Leap

4
Foe Hammer
Shadow Blade Technique

5
Tactical Strike
Moment of Perfect Mind

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Full Round - Full attack 1
[roll0]
Crit confirm
[roll1]
[roll2]
B & Magic

Includes bonus for attacking prone
If attack against Ringleader knocks him out subsequent attacks against Swordman2 (-4 to roll)

Full attack Haste
[roll3]
Crit confirm
[roll4]
[roll5]
B & Magic

Includes bonus for attacking prone
If attack against Ringleader knocks him out subsequent attacks against Swordman2 (-4 to roll). If this knocks out Swordsman 2, shift attack to Swordman 1

Full attack 2
[roll6]
Crit confirm
[roll7]
[roll8]
(2d8+6)[20]
B & Magic
Critical - 1 CON damage to target no save.
Includes bonus for attacking prone
If attack against Ringleader knocks him out subsequent attacks against Swordman2 (-4 to roll). If this knocks out Swordsman 2, shift attack to Swordman 1

Aegis - Std Ray of Frost
[roll9]
Crit confirm
[roll10]
[roll11]
Magic, Cold
Ranged Touch Attack

Next granted Crusader Manoeuvre
[roll12]

Next Manoeuvre granted is Crusader's Strike

Aldurin

2017-12-17, 11:14 AM

Lethio doesn't actually dismount from Obaith.

As the man fell apart into lifeless viscera under Obaith's talons, the bird let out a warbling that was half joyous and half monstrous. It made a short hop over to the main cluster of opponents and began to tear away, pivoting itself to make full use of the acceleration it was granted. Lethio watched the carnage gleefully as he cast another spell, working to summon more creatures for the carnage.

Obaith: Five-foot step to occupy N-6, N-7, O-6, O-7. Then full-attack targeting the M-8 enemy, directing excess attacks at the enemy at M-9 if necessary.

Talons 1:
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] Base + [roll2] Bane + [roll3] acid
Talons 2:
Attack: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5] Base + [roll6] Bane + [roll7] acid
Talons extra (from haste):
Attack: [roll8]
Damage: [roll9] Base + [roll10] Bane + [roll11] acid
Bite:
Attack: [roll12]
Damage: [roll13] Base + [roll14] acid

Lethio: Expending one of the prepared Tree Shape spells to spontaneously cast Summon Nature's Ally III (Ring of the Beast escalates this from SNA II). Chosen summon is [roll15] wolves, who will last for 11 rounds and benefit from Augment Summoning. Casting Defensively vs a DC of 18 [roll16]

paradox26

2017-12-17, 11:51 AM

Lucius started to cast his power, though it took several seconds before he managed to find out if it was going to work, since it was a slow power to activate. As soon as it took effect, he continued to move closer to the enemy, so that he could use his shorter ranged powers. He also continued to concentrate on the domination power that he had cast.

Lucius moves to H16 then continues to concentrate.

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-17, 03:06 PM

Bokki

Bokki was torn about what to do. Someone with some degree of muscle should stay back to defend the father and the lady. It seems the melee frenzy up ahead, with the arrival of the elves, was busy enough without him. Those archers, though, needed to be taken care of. "Be safe," the dwarf tells the father and the lady and he darts off to the east (S21) with his new-found magical speed while drawing his greatsword.

With a speed of 40, there´s not much beyond moving Bokki can do this round. He´ll be making archer-kebab next round.

Ryuuk

2017-12-17, 11:32 PM

"Hold... Hold!" Thesa grits her teeth as her spell fails. Fist clenched, she looks around trying to see where she could help. Aurix was still surrounded by foes and embers despite his wounds, Branden had returned the volley and bested Skathus' attacker, Isaachar covered the archers to the left while Bokki ran with surprising speed to those on the right. "We will, thank you."

The elves' entrance was gruesome. As if the ruffian at the back had summoned them only to meet a tragic end. She tries to understand what magic he tried to work, and what the elves were here for. Clearly, it wasn't to support the men. The beastly eagle they rode on was a like monster in a child's story.

As Father Lucius advances, she follows, ultimately deciding to strike as well. She calls out to one of the cattered bowmen to the north east. "Drop your weapon and run, else face judgement." She brandishes her holy symbol and implores it to call down it's justice.

Move:
Follow Father Lucius, keeping him and Isaachar in the circle, from I17

Standard:
Cast Spiritual Weapon on the archer in S11

AC
FF
Touch

23 + 2 if evil
21 + 2 if evil
20 + 2 if evil

Reflex
Fort
Will

7 + 2 if evil
9 + 2 if evil
14 + 2 if evil

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

0
0
62

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Magic Circle Against Evil
As Protection From Evil in 10ft emanation centered on self
100 minutes - 3 Rounds

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Spells Cast:
2 2nd Level
1 3rd Level
1 4th Level

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Move: to I17

Standard: Cast Spiritual Weapon, targeting S11

Attack [roll0]
if Crit [roll1]

Force, crit on 19-20 for x2
BAB of 7 + 7 Wisdom

Alias_Trench

2017-12-18, 03:29 AM

Round 2
https://photos-1.dropbox.com/t/2/AABNNqTVYXZwFfs5i_JJm2KrHvV-qavjVJgE9PdKwFAFvQ/12/10217126/png/32x32/1/_/1/2/Bandit07.png/EJDP_IEEGP8BIAcoBw/a3H8DWBcTjQOKOg_Nx53U8c6QVoxDab56b-TZRmSdVY?preserve_transparency=1&size=32x32&size_mode=5

Aurix's punches jolted into the leader of the bandits his final strike eliciting a sickening crack before he collapsed to the ground, devoid of breath and bleeding. Obaith's frenzied attack was even more gruesome than the last, the swordsman turned to face the bird and it's elven master but before he could even defend himself Obaith's talons had already descended upon his flesh and began ripping him to shreds. His screams stopped halfway through Obaith's assault as the eagle savored its sport.

Seeing his comrades cut down so rapidly the chain wielder executed a manoeuvre very similar, though to the trained eye slightly slower, to the one Aurix had before and disappeared into shadows. Thesa, Issachar and Branden could all see the man reappear beyond the sand wall scurrying away to the west running as fast as he could whilst small motes of shadows danced around him.

Lucius you can redo your turn if you wish, Keyris, Branden, Issachar's turns.

Hide [roll0]
Thesa [roll1]
Lucius [roll2]
Issachar [roll3]
Branden [roll4]

DM: Round 2
Aulinair: (1d20+6)[23] (action taken, cast Protection from Arrows)
Bokki: (1d20+7)[22] Acted
Aurix: (1d20+7)[21] Acted
Ringleader: (1d20+3)[21] DEAD
Chain Man: (1d20+7)[20] Acted
Lethio: (1d20+3)[19] Acted
Obaith: (1d20+5)[16] Acted
Bowman: (1d20+8)[16] DEAD
Swordman 2: (1d20+5)[14] Dead
Lucius: (1d20+2)[14]
Keyiris: (1d20+9)[13]
Branden: (1d20+7)[13]
Skathus: (1d20+2)[18]
Nyx: (1d20+2)[12]
Archers: (1d20+4)[11]
Swordman 1: (1d20+5)[9]
Thesa: (1d20+2)[9]
Ruffian: (1d20)[4] DEAD
Issachar: (1d20+2)[3]

Plushie Arz

2017-12-18, 08:00 AM

THE GROUP
Keyiris had fought against enough enemies to know the most difficult foes were ones who were guided by conviction. Although these humans fought fiercely, they lacked any true loyalty save and their own greed. He could see in the clumsy strokes and off-angle blows that they lacked any proper training or discipline. All the easier for his blade.

Lethio started conjuring up the memories of the land to aid him in battle. Nature answered. He could envision in his mind a pack of wolves, feral and grey, that once roamed these plains in search of food. Muttering the ancient words of power, he called to them, so they their forms could wander these lands once more.

Lucius's mind buzzed and he felt his influence reaching out in search of feeble minds to dominate. While Mornay did not often grant his prayers of healing, this was another gift conferred by the Sun Goddess to help him against his enemies. He spotted two archers, a rough-looking man in his twenties who stood on the hills with his bow drawn and an older man who might be in his forties with the bloodied nose of a someone who enjoyed a drink. They looked simple enough for his task ahead. Gently pushing his influence into their minds, he seized control of their bodies.

happycube

2017-12-18, 08:21 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris uttered a word of magic, causing his boots to emit a rapidly-escalating hum. Feeling his body accelerate ever more, he paused for a fraction of a second to admire the sensation; he was in his element now. A half-heartbeat later, he bounded from the carnage wrought by Obaith, his feet barely touching the ground as he sprung to the side of the nearest living foe. With a nod of acknowledgement to the as-yet-unknown Aurix, he loosed a fraction of his arcane power, feeling the stored energy of a prepared spell dissipate into his blade as it glowed with energy. Keyiris swung in a series of graceful arcs at the distracted swordsman before him, who found himself caught between the elf and the strange-eyed man.

Swift action: activate Boots of Frenzied Movement to gain a move action as per Hustle
Move action: move to J7 to flank "Swordsman 1" with Aurix (N5 -> M6 -> K6 -> J7)(longsword should already be drawn, but Keyiris can draw it here if need be)
Free action: place offhand onto longsword, now wielding it in two hands
Free action: activate Arcane Strike feat, sacrificing a prepared casting of Enlarge Person for +1 to hit and +1d4 to damage for the round
Full-round action: attack "Swordsman 1" thrice, flanking with Aurix and using Power Attack with a -5 penalty to hit for +10 to damage

Iterative attack 1: [roll0] to hit, for [roll1] + [roll2] (Arcane Strike) + [roll3] (Swift Surge)

Haste attack: [roll4] to hit, for [roll5] + [roll6] (Arcane Strike) + [roll7] (Swift Surge)

Iterative attack 2: [roll8] to hit, for [roll9] + [roll10] (Arcane Strike) + [roll11] (Swift Surge)

[roll12] to confirm, for [roll13]
[roll14] to confirm, for [roll15]
[roll16] to confirm, for [roll17]

AC
FF
Touch

25 (24 +1 Haste)

21

17

Reflex
Fort
Will

14 (13 +1 Haste)

8

10

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

55+5 temp

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Fire 5

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Shield
+4 shield bonus to AC
2/100 rounds

Haste
+1 dodge bonus to AC, +1 to attack rolls, +1 to reflex saves
1/10 rounds

Knowledge Devotion
+2 to attack and damage rolls vs. humanoids
Encounter

Power Attack
-5 to hit, +10 to damage (two-handed)
Round

Arcane Strike
+1 to hit, +1d4 to damage
Round

Conditional Modifiers:
Special: 40% miss chance (Blurred Alacrity class feature), +1d6 damage if moving at least 10 ft. (Swift Surge class feature)

Plushie Arz

2017-12-18, 08:46 AM

https://i.imgur.com/AXSqpXm.png

Keyiris had once fought as part of Kae'ris' advance guards, alongside heroes like Neria the Bladesinger, and Swordmaster Hagen. While the bandits showed their brute strength, the remaining swordsman was no match for Keyiris' bladework and in three quick slashes, without a single ounce of wasted movement, the man fell to the ground bleeding from his throat.

The bandits on the main road were dead and the seeing their leaders dispatched so quickly, save for the two men who were dominated by Lucius, the bowmen on the hills turned and fled.

DM: +1400XP to all. On the corpses of the dead men, the group found
Masterwork Hide Armor
+1 Human Bane Greatclub
Amulet of Natural Armor +1
Cloak of Resistance +2
2 Masterwork Greatsword
2 Banded Mail
+2 Longbow
+1 Chain Shirt
16 arrows
A bloodied Cloak of Elvenkind

Breitheamh

2017-12-18, 09:20 AM

Branden

As his shots claimed the bowman's life, Branden felt a pang of guilt, threatening to overwhelm him as it always did when he killed, but he was able to put it behind him, reminding himself that sometimes violence is necessary to protect people.

He watched in disgust though as the enormous eagle ripped two men to shreds, its rider with a look of apparent glee on his face. He had enough sense to recognize the help that was offered, but he couldn't say that he agreed with the method.

As the bandits were dispatched, and the archers began to flee, Skathus landed next to Nyx, allowing Branden a moment to study the newcomers. They were obviously elves, but he didn't recognize any of them, and that eagle....something about it bothered him, especially given that Skathus began to whinny with concern at the sight of it.

Trying to ignore the eagle for a second, Branden addresses the group, "We can let the archers go; they're probably just poor men driven to banditry by need. But that guy with the chain, he might know something; I'm going after him." While he is talking, Branden takes out four blunted arrows from his back pack and keeps them tight in his fist, gripped against his bow. Then he whistles and takes off on Skathus as Nyx dashes along below them.

Once they get close enough, Branden looses a volley of nonlethal projectiles at the fleeing man.

Knowledge Nature to identify Obaith [roll0]

Attack 1 [roll1]
Crit confirm [roll2]
Nonlethal Damage [roll3] + [roll4]

Attack 2 [roll5]
Crit confirm [roll6]
Nonlethal Damage [roll7] + [roll8]

Attack 3 [roll9]
Crit confirm [roll10]
Nonlethal Damage [roll11] + [roll12]

Attack 4 [roll13]
Crit confirm [roll14]
Nonlethal Damage [roll15] + [roll16]

Aldurin

2017-12-18, 11:40 AM

As the enemy fled, Lethio clearly didn't think the battle was over. He directed the wolves he summoned to chase down the archers fleeing to the east, and he went aloft on top of Obaith as they went to pursue the archers fleeing to the northwest. The two blood-covered allies both made disturbingly similar savage noises as the ascended.

Posting from phone so if any rolls are needed for this I'll do them in OOC when I get home.

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-18, 03:00 PM

Bokki

The enemy was already fleeing. Obviously, they had underestimated the situation. Rather than chasing the men down, which seemed silly given how many there were, Bokki draws his bow and shoots once at the nearest archer to encourage them to keep running. Then, with bow still drawn, he prepares to slowly move back to the father and the lady.

Move: Draw bow
Standard: Shoot arrow at nearest archer. [roll0], damage [roll1] (even if he is running, losing his dex and within 30 ft I forego the sneak attack. I aim to scare him, not slay a fleeing man). Crit confirm (if 31) [roll2], bonus damage [roll3].

Next planned action, if they keep fleeing is to move back to Father Lucius.

Ryuuk

2017-12-18, 05:07 PM

Thesa

Thesa is taken aback by the eagle and its rider's savagery. She guards herself as the pack of wolves go forth, stopping when she remembered the circle that protected her from them. Their targets were appearent soon enough.

The danger appearently passed, she gestures the spiritual weapon towards her. She admires it briefly, goddess of mercy and light she may be, but judgement by the sword was her domain as well, she had to remember that, as much as the act felt wrong. "Judgement served", as she finishes enunciating, the bastard sword vanishes, dismissed.

She dashes towards what remains of the melee, eyes focused on the man with the chain's handiwork. "Aurix, let me take care of the wound. Do you often jump into 6 armed men at once?" He had placed his life on the line, this was her duty. Once she reaches him, she raises a hand and tries to lay it on his chest. "Vigor to the body"

She looks at each of the dead, wondering if any are in truth just barely with the living. The she looks back to the elves, who looked somewhat less hostile than the eagle rider now after prey. She addresses them in a slow, careful Elven, putting time and thought in each word. "Thank you for your help."

Dismissing the Spiritual weapon she just cast
Moving to L9 (if relevant)
Trying to cast Lesser Vigor on Aurix to heal 15 HP over time

Spells Cast:
1 1st Level: Lesser Vigor)
2 2nd Level: Divine Insight, Spiritual Weapon
1 3rd Level: Magic Circle against Evil
1 4th Level: Heightened Hold Person

EDIT: Will correct if we are not quite out of combat yet.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-18, 05:31 PM

BRANDEN
The bird resembled a dire eagle but it's features were far more savage and had characteristics which were not naturally found in avians. The bloodshot eyes, the chitinous scales that replaced patches of feathers, the rows of sharp teeth in its beak and the lingering smell of acid in its breath was a callback to something horrid, as of nature itself had taken a step back to a more savage time.

It reminded Branden of a similar creature the Raven Wolves had dispatched a few months ago in another village in the shadows of the Great Dividing Chain, a scaled bear with a serpentile tongue which feasted on livestock and villagers alike.

He spotted the chain wielding man some sixty feet away just passing over the crest of the hill. Had Branden waited a few more seconds, he would have disappeared from sight. Four glancing shots brought him down unconscious.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-18, 05:49 PM

Breitheamh

2017-12-18, 08:35 PM

Branden

As soon as all four arrows are loosed, Branden jumps off of Skathus from 15 ft up and rolls into the drop as the pegasus glides to a landing nearby. He scoops up the unconscious man as Nyx catches up to him, and places the man across Nyx's back, pulling out some rope from the rod at his belt and quickly lashing him in place.

Then he mounts back up on Skathus and all of them head back to the group.

"Nyx can carry this guy with us until he wakes up, then we might be able to get some answers," he says to the group. "Now, I think we owe you some thanks," he addresses the elves warily, "But, please, let the others go. They do not deserve death."

Alias_Trench

2017-12-19, 12:45 AM

The chain wielder vanished using a shadow hand manoeuvre, Aurix was sure. The elf who had arrived on the giant bird rushed to flank the swordsman and deftly dispatched the man. Aurix nodded back at him as the swordsman fell, it was a short and curt acknowledgement of his presence and thanks for his help.

Aurix surveyed the scene around him. The hooligans on the hills were falling over themselves to run away while the scarred elf's summoned wolves gave chase. The bird and he had also left to hunt the survivors. Aurix looked up to the sky. The 4 amber lights were still there for the mean time. It was a signal for sure, but to whom and what did it convey? Aurix did not want to find out.

"My thanks for your assistance, I see you have arrived with Aulinair so I take it that we are allies. I am Aurix Vuthaussir of the Mot'ia tribe" Aurix stepped forward to shake his hand. Though he had been associated with the elven resistance for almost half a century Aurix had never managed to pick up the language. He was not particularly adept with linguistics in general so he addressed him in common.

Thesa ran up to Aurix
"Aurix, let me take care of the wound. Do you often jump into 6 armed men at once?".
"Thank you Thesa but that won't be necessary, save your spells, they are a precious resource." Aurix closed his eyes for a second and held his right hand in a fist. Within a moment a glow of negative energy pulsed within his hand. Aurix opened his eyes again and Thesa could see that his pupils had dilated to the point where his iris was like the corona of an eclipse in the sky. Aurix then harmlessly discharged it against his chain shirt and his pupils immediately shrunk down to mere pin pricks, like a champagne moon on the night sky, as a light began to emerge from where the negative energy once was, this time full of warmth and positive energy. This time Aurix raised the hand that held the positive energy to his wounds and Thesa saw that they began to heal immediately. Aurix conducted this process all whilst continuing to talk as if it were the most normal thing in the world for him and continued to repeat it until he was satisfied his wounds were healed.

"To answer your question, while it is often tactically not the smartest move, I am generally good enough at dodging and parrying attacks that I come to no harm. Further more I find that I am most effective when I am fighting multiple enemies and far from allies. That and if they're focused on me, they have less of an opportunity to go after my allies. Speaking of which, are you or anyone else hurt?" Aurix then turns to the elf who he had just been conversing with. "If you'll excuse me sir, I may need to tend to my party's wounds. I'm sure we shall talk more later.

Aurix switched his stance back to Hunter's sense, grimaced at the smell of blood everywhere and then moved towards Issachar,

"It looks like you've been hit. Sorry I wasn't there to protect you. Here let me heal you."

Aurix repeated the motions he used to heal himself and made conversation while he was doing so, "Thanks for the haste spell, it was very helpful. Also good work on the sand wall, probably saved us from a lot more arrows." Aurix looked over his shoulder and spotted Aulinair, "Looks like Aulinair brought some reinforcements, though I do wonder about the scarred elf with the bird... still you should go thank her for her timely arrival" Aurix had just finished up and clapped Issachar on the shoulder and winked.

Branden arrived back with the chain wielder tied to Nyx, he regrouped with everyone.

"We should actually keep moving and probably off the path. That dancing lights spell was more than likely used for communication and whoever provided this lot with these still rolled platinum pieces is probably on their way here and I would hazard that if it isn't Judge Thornton, it's likely some other inquisitor." Aurix then picked up the clean canvas bag and assessed it's scent looking for traces of what type of person had bequeathed this upon such a group.

"Branden would you like me to take care of Skathus' wounds?"

Touch of the shadow sun - evoke negative energy, discharge against self for 0 damage due to soul fire enchantment, evoke positive energy and heal 2d8+5 = 21 HP maximised as out of combat

Plushie Arz

2017-12-19, 03:23 AM

THE GROUP
Five wolves, somewhat smaller than Nyx appeared from Lethio's summons. They gnashed their teeth and bounded over the hills to obey the commands of their master.

LETHIO, KEYIRIS
Although Lethio and Keyiris had not met the man before, they knew Aurix was an important figure and an ally to the Resistance. He had been among the fighters who delivered one of the few victories over the Order in the Southern Jungles. Aulinair closed the flap of her spell components pouch and buried her gloved hands into the pockets of her grey overcoat.

"Master Aurix is here. And I believe the man at the back is Father Lucius."* She said quietly, to the two. She feigned a neutral smile at the other humans. "Remember what Tanelia said. We're here to help them against the Radiants, not to hide them."

*Elven

Kvard51

2017-12-19, 11:18 AM

Aurix switched his stance back to Hunter's sense, grimaced at the smell of blood everywhere and then moved towards Issachar,

"It looks like you've been hit. Sorry I wasn't there to protect you. Here let me heal you."

Aurix repeated the motions he used to heal himself and made conversation while he was doing so, "Thanks for the haste spell, it was very helpful. Also good work on the sand wall, probably saved us from a lot more arrows." Aurix looked over his shoulder and spotted Aulinair, "Looks like Aulinair brought some reinforcements, though I do wonder about the scarred elf with the bird... still you should go thank her for her timely arrival" Aurix had just finished up and clapped Issachar on the shoulder and winked.

"Hit? I hadn't noticed..." Issachar's knees appear to weaken, just for a second, before the healing energy courses through him. He shivered as his wound mended by the power of magic. That is always such a shock...

The Wanderer's praise made Issachar smile. He had seldom heard encouragement for his actions on the practice yard, and even less seldom on the battlefield. "I simply acted according to my... Aulinair is here?"

Issachar's head jerked up, searching the newcomer's faces... There... is she injured... no, she appears safe...

Relief flooded him as he saw her without injury. He ran towards her, jerkily, for a few steps. Catch yourself before you play the fool, fool...

He pulled up short and performed a formal bow. As he stood up, he spoke to her in Elven, <"Well met, Aulinair of Kiiska. We are honored by your assistance and thankful for your presence. I have missed you..."> Issachar stares at her, waiting for her response, seemingly unaware of the other elves, or even his own companions...

paradox26

2017-12-19, 12:01 PM

Lucius continued to dominate the two bowmen. He said to them, "Drop your weapons, or my companions will think you to still be a threat."

He then went to check on the others quickly, but seeing that there were already healers present, he approached the two men he dominated. "Tell me who sent your group after us,
and who exactly where you after? Surely you were not here simply by chance." He studied the two men. Neither seemed to be anything out of the ordinary. Desperate men, they would certainly kill for very little cause. But something had caused them to be waiting here at this time, and from what their leader said, it was clear that they wanted he and Thesa. It was possible that they wanted Thesa simply because she was a woman, but it was also possible that they were following the same orders that caused them to want to capture him.

Autopsibiofeeder

2017-12-19, 01:47 PM

Bokki

Bokki moved back to the group, quickly scanning the environment to make sure his friends were still alive and count the dead. "Good job," he sais to noone in particular, "everyone allright?" The dwarf notices the newcomers that had apparently helped them out. Elves..... "Hi. Bokki."

Ryuuk

2017-12-19, 05:41 PM

Thesa

Wide eyed, Thesa finds herself more drawn to Aurix's action than his words. Negative energy, the end of life, taken in and converted to the healing light she knew so well. That alone seemed impossible, but the way his eyes reacted... It had to be because of the impurity. "I... I think Nyx was grazed by a few arrows too." She answers his question, as he goes back to Isaachar.

Still, she composes herself, committing this to memory, and goes to the bodies. She checks them for signs of life, and drags them off the road. Closes their eyes, lays them on their back and tries to give them at least some dignity. Whatever they had done in life, their fate was in the goddess's hands now. Merciful as she may be, they would reap what they sowed.

If any had no crossed yet, she offers a touch of healing to stop them from bleeding out.

As she does this, she listens to the others talk.

Heal check (?) to see if any of the brigands might survive. [roll0]

If any are still alive she uses a Cure Minor Wounds to stabalize.

Listen in case she can hear the whispering, if needed. [roll1]

happycube

2017-12-19, 08:19 PM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris once more gave a solemn nod to each of the others that thanked him, flashing an uncomfortable smile while awaiting the inevitable pleasantries, as his magic began to wear off. He looked to the strange-eyed man, uncertainly glancing at the extended hand before taking it, giving a quick but firm shake. Thinking it better to allow Aza’Athavariel to make their introductions for him, Keyiris grasped at the chain hanging from his throat, projecting his thoughts to the amulet. Speak for me, my heart.

As you wish, I shall address them in their own tongue. Keyiris pulled the gleaming amulet from his tunic, telepathically communicating raw data regarding their mission to the item as it began speaking in common, piecing together Keyiris' broken thoughts into coherent sentences. "I am called Aza’Athavariel, and this is my master Keyiris," said the amulet, Keyiris giving another nod at the mention of his name while the item continued. "While we herald from Kae'ris and then Kiiska, our current mission brings us far astray to your company. My companions seek to aid you against a coming Radiant inquisition, and to offer safe passage to the Ko'tetsu lands."

Keyiris stared intently at the amulet as it spoke for him, a slight smile touching his lips. His posture has relaxed somewhat from the relief of not needing to talk, and he sheathed his sword.

Breitheamh

2017-12-19, 11:07 PM

Branden

Branden raises an eyebrow at Aurix's energy channeling. He made it a habit not to make judgments before understanding something, but it was a little weird. Not that he was exactly an expert on the subject.

"If you have enough power to do so," he said warily, dismounting and inspecting his friends' wounds. They did not look too bad; both of them had suffered worse before, but nevertheless he held first Skathus, then Nyx in an embrace, whispering to them, thanking them for their bravery and apologizing for their pain.

Then he turned to the elves, sneering at the one who was chasing down the fleeing men. He didn't think there was much he could do to stop him other than voice his disapproval, and the act put him on edge regarding these newcomers. What was their real motive here?

He addresses the one whose necklace spoke and asked him, "Whose orders do you follow, and how did they know where we would be?"

Plushie Arz

2017-12-19, 11:23 PM

Aldurin

2017-12-19, 11:44 PM

Lethio remains quiet for most of the exchange, mainly trying to assess Branden and his pegasus. Obaith finishes crunching through the arm he was holding, then looks at Lethio with puzzlement. It dawns on him that its the first time with Obaith that he's been near humans and not tried to kill them. To keep the eagle busy, Lethio directs him to the nearby bodies, which it begins to tear flesh from and savage with gusto. Despite how loud and disturbing the cracking and slurping noises coming from that activity are, Lethio barely seems to notice as he continues to look over the group. After a few moments he casts Speak With Animals and takes a step towards the black pegasus, looking directly at it. "Why do you travel with these humans?" He asks in elven, translated through the spell.

Breitheamh

2017-12-20, 12:03 AM

Skathus

The pegasus turns his head at the elf addressing him directly. Few people besides Branden acknowledged his intelligence enough to speak to him directly, even after Branden explained to them the nature of their relationship. But something about the way the elf spoke indicated that he would be understood in return, and he answered, <"I wouldn't call it "traveling with these humans" so much as being friends. Branden raised me, and he is the best person I've ever met. Why do you travel with an eagle that has a corrupted soul?">

Aldurin

2017-12-20, 08:00 AM

Lethio ponders for a moment, then responds, this time speaking in druidic. "Because I have experienced firsthand the folly of believing in human loyalty, the weakness that comes from a civilized life. These humans you consider to be friends are volatile, all it takes is the right change in circumstance for them to declare a former ally to be their new enemy. But him." He gestures to Obaith, who is still occupied with his meal and doesn't seem to acknowledge the conversation. "He is nature's truest form. Savage, powerful and honest. Before meeting him, I was powerless to make a difference against the humans who slaughtered my kind on a whim. But together we have clarity, purpose and results." A pause, then continuation. "I do not trust these humans, but I will trust your nature. If you truly believe that these few humans in their current state are friends to be valued, then I will spare them my usual treatment for now."

Ryuuk

2017-12-20, 12:11 PM

Thesa

Thesa was starting to feel satisfied with how she'd left the remains of the dead. She notices Obaith's shadow first, and her instinct was to try and wave it away. "Hey, hey, I wasn't laying out a meal!" When the situation becomes clear and it starts to feast, she scrambles back and off her knees.

Somewhat disapointed, she watches it eat, as she does so washing away the blood on her palms and whatever gore had splashed on her. All things considered, a scavanger would have gotten to them eventually, she just wasn't expecting it to happen so soon.

If she could assess that any of them were still alive, she'll hastily try to drag that body away and hope Obaith was distracted with the dead.

Liberal use of Create Water to wash up.

Kvard51

2017-12-20, 12:18 PM

THE PARTY

The bandits on the road were dead and the eagle returned with an arm protruding from its beak.

Aulinair nodded politely at Issachar, like countless times previously. <"I'm glad to see you are well, Master Issachar."> Like before, Issachar found it almost impossible to ascertain a deeper intent in her demeanor or her composed smile.

"We came on information provided by our allies in the Resistance." She stated simply. "A band of your size is not difficult to track."
Trying to not let his embarassment show on his face, Issachar turns to Keyiris, listening to the speech emanating from his amulet. His mind immediately seeks to understand this phenomenon.

As Lethio and his horrid bird land, Issachar is momentarily distracted from his examination of Keyiris' amulet. By the Morning, that is a foul creature... And his master... so horribly scarred...

"<My thanks to you all, Milords. Your arrival spared us a far more difficult battle. Perhaps, though, further introductions should wait until we are in a more secluded location?">, he says in elven to the group at large.

Understand the Amulet: Knowledge (Arcana) [roll0]
Spellcraft [roll1]

Identifying the eagle: Knowledge (Nature) [roll2]

Breitheamh

2017-12-20, 12:20 PM

Skathus

Skathus glares at the druid after his explanation. <"While I appreciate the respect for my judgment, I should warn you that you will have to kill me if you intend any harm or stand by while your eagle inflicts it on innocent people, of ANY race. Humans and elves are not nearly as different as you seem to think, and after meeting you I'm even more convinced that they all have the capacity for both good and evil inside them."> He gestures with his head toward Obaith's feasting, <"Our choices of companions say a lot about us, after all.">

Alias_Trench

2017-12-20, 06:57 PM

Earlier
Aurix saw that look in her eyes, surprise but then he could see wheels turning. Ever inquisitive, the status of youth I suppose.

"You have questions I can tell, we can revisit this when we stop to rest if you like"

The elf before him introduced himself... or rather had an amulet introduce him as Keyris of Kae'ris

Aurix wasn't 100% sure what was going on but at the mention of 'Master' Aurix suspected that the amulet known as Aza’Athavariel was a familiar in the same way Aegis was a his familiar. Aurix mentally checked in with Aegis.

:smallconfused:

Aegis responded, :smallsmile:, indicating that things were fine.

"Well met Keyris and Aza’Athavariel. I see you have an item familiar and I suppose since you have introduced yourself I should introduce mine. Aegis, say hello."

Aegis glowed for a moment and a crudely made open hand appeared before Aurix and then slowly arced left to right as if waving.

"Again we are thankful for your assistance"

*Later*

"Healing is a trivial affair for me if I have the time to focus on it, it is no imposition Branden"

Aurix bowed his head to Skathus before he approached and said,

"If I may approach you to tend to your wounds".

A single touch was all that was required by the looks of it. From there he moved on to Nyx, letting her sniff his hand by way of introduction before getting to work. Aurix was careful to make sure it was only Nyx getting the positive energy rather than her 'passenger'. Being close to the two creatures made him feel happy, it was all very much like when he was young and running around the jungles playing with the local macaques. That was at least before he had his accident. Aurix shook his head, such things were almost a lifetime ago now. Aurix finished up and dusted himself off.

"There we are you two, all patched up."

Aurix smiled and scratched behind Nyx's ear before following up with another polite inclination of the head to Skathus.

Aurix had been listening to the goings on happening around him as he worked. Bokki had come to introduce himself to the elves and Aurix gave him a simple nod when he asked if everyone was doing alright. The scarred elf, still name unknown, addressed Skathus in an unknown language and Skathus in turn appeared to be responding and looking none all too impressed. Branden addressed Aulinair, after she and Issachar had conversed in elven, who responded in a way that Aurix had not expected. The thing of interest to Aurix was Aulinair's use of language.
'We came on information provided by our allies in the Resistance'
Either she does not want to expose me as a member of the Resistance, though her name has already been mentioned by myself so those present could easily put two and two together. No this must mean something else is going on and another ally had presented this information to them...

Aurix simply raised an eyebrow, the one not covered by his shock of white hair, at Aulinair while Issachar addressed all who were present in elven.

Directed at Aulinair - Sense Motive for a Hunch [roll0]
Directed at Lethio - Sense Motive for a Hunch [roll1]
Directed at Keyris - Sense Motive for a Hunch [roll2]

Breitheamh

2017-12-20, 11:33 PM

Branden

While Skathus tried to stare down the druid, Branden observed the introductions that each person tried to make. The elven woman, apparently named Aulinair, she and Issachar had some kind of history, the one with the talking necklace he guessed was old enough to remember the former glory of Kae'ris, and the last, the one with the eagle, he seemed unpredictable.

Aurix, meanwhile, appeared to feel comfortable taking charge of the groups' union. Thesa was obviously not comfortable with the newcomers, though she tried her best, while Father Lucius seemed less bothered by the violence than Branden expected. He wasn't sure what to make of Bokki yet. Must be a dwarf-thing.

"Not much of one for introductions, are you?" he asks Bokki, hanging back from the main discussion until his opinion was needed.

happycube

2017-12-21, 08:41 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris tried to suppress his urge to cringe as Obaith set to the corpses the woman had just moved. As he replaced Aza’Athavariel against the outside of his vest, his gaze darted across the rapidly-changing arrangement of the gathered group, watching as they moved to converse and tend to one another's wounds. Aza’Athavariel was silent, Aulinair having beat the amulet in responding to the archer's prompt. Keyiris took stock of the spells utilized by the others, making a mental note of each one to better divine their casters' capabilities. His attention drifted to Lethio, and he watched the man intently as he conversed with the pegasus, first in elven before switching to a language Keyiris did not recognize. Curious.

He found himself looking to the sky, glancing sideways at the as-yet-unknown Issachar as he pondered the man's words. He's right. We should move. But we need to be ready to move. We're not ready yet. We need to coordinate. We need to know names for coordination. What if I...

Allow me. Keyiris felt the amulet pulse against his chest, before it glowed and began to speak once more, this time addressing Issachar in elven. <"A good suggestion, though we might share names as we move, to better communicate should another such ambush occur. Are you and yours ready to travel?">

ISSACHAR
The necklace is undoubtedly an intelligent item of sorts, communicating as it does even as it's bearer's attention quite obviously drifts from the conversation.
AURIX
Keyiris' posture and mannerisms might characterize one who is nervous in their surroundings, as a liar under scrutiny or a paranoid individual. However, his apparent willingness to display his powers and his direct manner of confrontation in the engagement moments ago would also mark one with little to hide. He seems trustworthy, at least as far as being forward in his presentation.

Plushie Arz

2017-12-21, 05:29 PM

DM: +700rpxp to all.

AURIX
The canvas bag containing the platinum smelled like wax, incense and old parchment. It was not dissimilar to the smell accompanied Lucius in his church in Chan'taal and one which Aurix had noticed many times around the more clerically inclined members of the Order.

He got the impression it wasn't unfounded altruism which brought Aluinair and the elves here. There was some ulterior motive in helping Father Lucius reach the Ko'tetsu Empire. Then again, he knew Khallis had not forsaken her ties to the Resistance when she took up Mornay's worship and it was all very foreseeable her agents may have cast a wide net for help.

THE PARTY
The dancing lights cast by the dead bandit had now faded but it was there for all to see for some time.

LUCIUS
Lucius turned the power of his gloves to the bag of platinum. A plethora of images, obscured by arcane fog rushed to his mind. He saw armoured men on horses with rolls of posters and scribes working feverishly. He saw a white clad priest with aapproaching the bandits and handing over a bag of gold. The images changed and Lucius caught sight of his own visage, crudely copied on the rolls of vellum "WANTED FOR HERESY - REWARD"

Aldurin

2017-12-21, 05:56 PM

Lethio receives Skathus' threat with an amused expression, then letting out a laugh he replies. "I don't think that will work, since your definition of 'innocent' will probably be too lenient." He starts walking back to Obaith, pretending that the spell's duration has run out if Skathus responds. The eagle seems to have eaten its fill, as it's now simply thrashing through the remains of the bandits for fun. It doesn't show any noticeable reaction as Lethio climbs atop it, and it continues to yank on the entrails of one of the corpses as if it were a loose thread of fabric. "Those lights were probably a signal to the inquisition, out hunting for your barely-worthwhile hides." He says to the group, speaking in common for the first time in weeks. There's a tone of contempt in his voice as he uses this language. "I ain't feeling up for running away from any fights today." He looks directly at Father Lucius, hesitating then extending a reluctant hand. "Lucius, right? Why not ride along with me as we crash into the inquisition? If they have a problem with you specifically, you should get a kick out of looking them in the eye as they soil themselves from fear."

Alias_Trench

2017-12-22, 04:57 AM

The unnamed elf with the scars spoke again, this time in common, with a tone that showed pure disdain for its use. His attitude reminded Aurix of another elf he had met in his youth though this one's countenance showed far less excess in his life. Having stood and listened to the interactions going on around him Aurix decided to finally speak up but not before Aurix raised another eyebrow at Aulinair, whether she was looking at him or not.

"Ahem. I believe formal introductions are in order, though you," gesturing to the elves, "clearly know who Father Lucius is. Father Lucius, Thesa, Branden, Bokki, this is Aulinair Moonhair, she is with the Resistance. Aulinair, you already know Issachar but I'll mention him for the benefit of your companions. Otherwise this is Father Lucius, Thesa, Branden and Bokki."

Aurix gestured to each individual respectively

"Keyris and his familiar have already introduced himself, which leaves you..."

Aurix turned his attention to the man who had remounted his eagle mount and had extended a hand towards Father Lucius. Aurix could already sense tension and though he was not the greatest speaker in the world and people were oft prejudiced against Aurix for a variety of reasons he did want to avert inflaming this man's obvious prejudice against humans so he tread carefully

"what should we call you and your companion?"

After sorting out the introductions, Aurix pulled up beside Aulinair.

"Aulinair, may I speak to you in private for a minute?"

Aldurin

2017-12-22, 07:57 AM

Lethio intently listens to Aurix when addressed, and the man can sense Lethio's eyes tracing the patterns of his scars. "Lethio Salandias. Obaith is my companion." The contempt in his common recedes to a stronger tone of curiosity as he takes in Aurix's scarred countenance. "You may have heard of me and my druid order, and if so you know that this situation is an exception to my normal choice of allies. If you think you're better than the Morning Sun, I'm interested to see it be proven in actions."

Kvard51

2017-12-22, 09:31 AM

"Aurix, we need to move. That Dancing Lights spell was a signal. Something is bearing down on us while we stand here making nice. If we are to get Father Lucius and Thesa to safety, now is the time to do it." Issachar looks at Aurix with a troubled expression. It is rare that he steps to the fore like this, so it's obvious his worry has pushed his normal doubts to the back of his mind, for a change.

Ryuuk

2017-12-22, 09:19 PM

Earlier
Aurix saw that look in her eyes, surprise but then he could see wheels turning. Ever inquisitive, the status of youth I suppose.

"You have questions I can tell, we can revisit this when we stop to rest if you like"

The offer came unexpectadly, but Aurix could see Thesa's eyes light up. "Really? Thank you, Aurix. I look forward to it."

---

After a while, Thesa finally looks away and shudders. She had watched her father slaughter and clean lambs for special occasions and offering the gift of healing on the road had brought her before grevious injuries and diseases. This was a bit much though. Once Lethio calls Obaith, she looks back at the remains and wonders how Chan'taal will react to this scene once it's found. Those who blamed the elves wouldn't be far off.

She cups her prayer beads between her hands and takes them almost to her lips as she stands over them. "May the afterlife be just."

She stands by as Lethio explains the light and makes his offer. It was hard to believe that these men, impure as they were, would work with the inquisition. It would have been an afront to their beliefs, wouldn't it? To move towards them and fight though... She looks towards Father Lucius and wonders how this teacher would answer.

Thesa bows her head as Aurix introduces her, and thinks back to her travels once Lethio mentions his name. There seemed to be no love lost between him and the Order, and given what she understood had happened since the great war...

Knowledge Religion with regards to Lethio and his order: [roll0], perhaps as something she learned of through Aquila.

Alias_Trench

2017-12-23, 01:00 AM

Issachar raised his concerns and they matched Aurix's own. "You're quite right Issachar, though Lethio here has come to the same deduction and suggested a course of action it would appear perhaps our aims from hence diverge"

Returning his attention to Lethio, Aurix responded in kind to his earlier musing.

"To be 'better' is a matter of perspective and expectation Lethio. You mean to assess me against your values and see if I am wanting. That is fine by me, I am used to judgement by others. That said you will have to wait to sate your curiosity as my primary duty is seeing to the safety of my charges."

Aurix turned his attention to the group as a whole this time.

"From what I can gather, these men were paid this money by priests or clerics within the Order. The bag is heavily laced with the same scents that happen to be on the majority of the more clerically minded of the Order. Father Lucius, Thesa, it is still your decision as to whether we continue to evade the Inquisition or as Lethio suggests, we take the fight to them. Either way, as many have pointed out, a signal has been raised and our time in this location runs short. What would you like to do?"

The request for a private conversation with Aulinair still stands. At the first available opportunity, if that's while we're talking here or while we're moving, Aurix will pull Aulinair to the side to have a chat.

paradox26

2017-12-23, 10:04 AM

Lucius looked troubled. "These men were definitely seeking me. I received an impression of priests, probably Inquisitors, handing out posters with my image and a wanted for heresy notice. And you are correct. The dancing lights will be a signal for them to come here. We must move quickly. I do not wish to fight them if it can be avoided. It would grieve Mornay deeply to witness her own chosen fighting each other over a matter of theological politics. So we must run."

His visage lightened into what might pass for a cheeky grin for just a moment. "Besides, there are many of them, and they are likely powerful. I am no coward, but I do not seek battle where none is needed." He looked serious once more, and said, "So, in which direction do we go? Preferably one in which it is difficult to track us."

Plushie Arz

2017-12-25, 07:46 PM

THESA
Nai'Tuhra was the goddess of nature and life but and her followers broadly followed her teachings about the natural cycle of life, death and procreation. However, some of Nai'Tuhra's followers followed some of her older teachings from a time before the Unification - scriptures which espoused violence, savagery and strength. Oddly enough, their prayers were still answered, despite Nai'Tuhra having long moved away from these teachings.

THE PARTY
**Earlier**
Aulinair nodded at Aurix's request for a meeting.

"It is good to see you, Master Aurix. When do you think you can return to Kiiska? Your aid will lend much to our cause."

Ryuuk

2017-12-26, 12:29 PM

Thesa

Hearing Father Lucius's interpretation, Thesa slowly nods. "Then we should continue to Oldentown... At this size I don't think we can hide our trail, but the Inquisition would not be allowed to seek us there once we reach it."

If a pagan god's teachings are ignored, yet their power still recieved... why do they still grant it? "Master Salandias, Master Keyiris, I'm sorry but we do not seek to fight them. If those lights are a signal, then we might not be able to avoid it, but we can try."

Kvard51

2017-12-26, 12:39 PM

"I have a way to make sure there is no trail." Issachar says quietly, looking down at the ground. "That is, if everyone is willing to ride a creature I only know from my studies..."

He watches Aulinair walk to the side with Aurix, trying not to stare openly. Perhaps if I were a hero of the Resistance she would look at me differently... As soon as he thought it, he knew it wasn't worthy of her, or Aurix. There was nothing going on there, of that he was sure.

Alias_Trench

2017-12-27, 01:16 AM

*Earlier*

Aulinair nodded at Aurix's request for a meeting.

"It is good to see you, Master Aurix. When do you think you can return to Kiiska? Your aid will lend much to our cause."

"and you, it is good to see you are well. There may come a time soon, though I am no diviner and cannot foretell where my aid is needed most. I simply wander and help where I can. Such is the path I walk. Should that path lead to Kiiska once more, so be it. Have you sent to Khallis and has she responded yet?"

Aurix waited for Aulinair's response, responding as appropriate before beginning his next line of inquiry.

"Ok, now onto the allies you have brought with you. Lethio of the Order of the Horrid Forest? Their methodology is largely frowned upon is it not? So why now? I am fairly certain Khallis was not the one to provide you with the intel on Father Lucius and you were already in the area prior to Issachar contacting you. Which ally provided you with this intelligence and why is it that both of your allies have mentioned engaging the Inquisition rather than asking the one who's plight brought you here, what they wished to do?"

To avoid being bluffed if I am being bluffed
[roll0]
and scent is active - I don't necessarily need to know what her scent is - though if I've met her before I probably would have committed her scent to memory, does Aurix detect any differences?

*Later*

Branden's allies are also meant to be on the road north, but it is also possible that the Inquisition is to that direction too. On foot heading towards the north road would be the best option we have while we try to avoid the inquisition. That said, flight is an excellent idea if we have a means to do so and provides us with a new pathway. We could head East towards the forest and then travel North. Considering how low the signal lights were it is likely that we will be visible if we take to the skies here. It is even possible that your arrival was spotted, Aulinair, Lethio, Keyris. So we may need to keep to the ground, or low to the ground while we head towards the forest. From inside the treeline we can take to the skies where the shadow of the Great Dividing Chain and the treetops can give us some cover from being spotted. As we fly north we should keep our eyes to the West for signs of the Inquisition and also Branden's allies."

Breitheamh

2017-12-30, 02:16 AM

Branden

Listening to the back-and-forth for some time, Branden finally chimes in, "Yeah, I think north by northeast is probably our best option right now. My crew is up that way, and Oldentown is a good checkpoint for escaping the Inquisitors. I don't think the Radiants are quite bold enough to drag anyone out of there by force, at least not yet. If we can get there, we can at least regroup, recharge, and figure out the next leg when we come to it."

Aldurin

2017-12-30, 10:52 PM

Lethio retracts his hand, clearly angered by Lucius' rejection of his plan. "I'm going to scout the Inquisition's location." He mutters to Aulinair in elven. "Tell me what these cowards plan to do when I get back."

He directs Obaith aloft, flying to gain altitude as he tries to spot the inquisition force from great height.

Spot check to find the Inquisition from the air [roll0]

Breitheamh

2017-12-31, 01:14 AM

Branden

Branden raises an eyebrow at Lethio's comments, but says nothing until he is out of earshot.

"What's his problem?"

Plushie Arz

2018-01-01, 10:13 AM

LETHIO
"They plan to flee. Don't forget our own plans."

Obaith took to the skies with a powerful flap of his wings which sent dust flying around the group. He rose on the updraught from the plains and looked for signs of the Inquisition described by Tanelia. He flew over the fields and hills, following the dusty road away from the human settlement, his keen eyes scouring the terrain below. Ten miles away he spotted a group that roughly fitted the description. A band of sixteen rode south. The horses looked as if their speed were being augmented by magic not unlike the spells cast by Lethio and they showed no signs of tiring. The riders were clad in shining armour and white clothing, and they seemed to be guarding the rider in the centre, an old man who wore a dark travelling cloak over his vestments.

THE PARTY
Aulinair nodded. "I received Master Isschar's message and sent to Sister Khallis. She knows of our arrival and offers Father Lucius sanctuary in Jor'daams." She tightened her lips. Aurix knew although Khallis was a valuable source of information for the Resistance about the happenings in the human lands, many found her newfound faith in Mornay distasteful and an affront to Nai'Tuhra, the patron deity of the elves. Some considered her conversion a betrayal of her heritage. Aurix did not detect anything different about Aulinair from their previous meetings.

"I don't think the fly spell would work on these animals." She said, pointing at the horses. One of the dominated bandits guffawed but the vacant look did not leave his eyes. They stood harmlessly with their bows on the ground. Aulinair shrugged. "And what do you plan to do with them?"

happycube

2018-01-04, 08:37 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris shifted on his feet, crossing his arms and bowing his head in thought as the others conversed around him. With brow furrowed and eyes closed, he bombarded Aza’Athavariel with a stream of projected thoughts They're saying exactly what you did; we need to go. Though he's right. Probably spotted if we fly here. Maybe too late already. Too bad they don't want a fight. Too bad for them. Need to be prepared for a fight. They know that inquisition's ways? Maybe we have advantage. But we're both looking for each other. Sort of. At least be alert. Equal footing. Or not. They need to find us. We ambush them. But they don't want to fight. Hmm... Diversion's good either way. He found his momentary trance broken by the beating of Obaith's wings, as Keyiris watched the twisted creature take flight with the scarred elf upon its back. A wry smile crossed his lips. Hands are forced. Good work. Eyes in the skies're good. Maybe he sees them, they see him. Really need to be ready!

Keyiris turned to address Branden, his smile suddenly awkward. "I would surmise that his interactions with your race have left a...bitter...taste for Lethio," he uttered curtly, then looked to Aulinair as the amulet 'round his throat composed its thoughts.

Aza’Athavariel spoke up once more in its androgynous voice, clearly addressing those who had voiced doubts, though it could be heard by all. "Pardon my interruption, but I think you have mistaken our meaning. While we understand your reservations in jumping to conflict, all of us must nonetheless be prepared to meet the Inquisition's forces should confrontation prove unavoidable. Master Keyiris and my own specialties lie in anticipating such fights, hence my forwardness in these matters. Especially given Master Lethio's departure, we believe it wise to keep a watchful eye to the skies, whether or not we travel by air, lest a fight come to us. Regardless, we trust your judgment on navigational matters." The amulet paused for a moment, as though digesting its own words and readying a few more. Several times, it had placed noticeable emphasis on the word 'we', as though trying to verbally gesture to itself and its socially-inept elven master.

"On the subject of preparedness, what do you know of these inquisitors' methods? Anything you could relate of their fighting means would be valuable should we come to blows." The elf and amulet telepathically relayed their satisfaction to one another, hoping to have properly expressed their own concerns and settled talk of parting.

Breitheamh

2018-01-04, 01:31 PM

Branden

"Hmm..." Branden looks down in response to Keyiris' explanation of Lethio's attitude. Can't really judge him for that, I suppose, he thinks.

"The most important thing to remember when going up against Judge Thornton is to never underestimate him. He is a powerful man with deep-rooted convictions and an excellent mind for tactics. He and several of his retinue have a strong divine connection, that they are not afraid to wield as obviously or as subtly as needed. If they cannot catch us themselves, they may send a hit squad after us, usually made up of highly skilled trackers with just as radical of convictions as Thornton himself."

There is the slightest amount of catch in Branden's voice as he talks about Thornton's hit squads, as if he is regretting something, though it is not particularly noticeable to any but the most observant.

Ryuuk

2018-01-05, 06:28 PM

Thesa

Lethio's words went to heart. She nods, lightly, thinking of the times she'd heard similar sentiment. "The same war as Aquila". She listens to Keyris and Branden, they seemed to be taking it more seriously now. There was a real chance they would run into the inquisition. There were other things too.

"I can grant a blessing that would give protection. It should last through most of the day." She show it on herself first, muttering the recitation as a hand goes to her bracers. Protect us She offers this to those that would like it.

There was also another issue. If she understood Father Lucius's magic, this should work. "Father, please give me a moment with them." Once she performs the blessing, she turns to the two archers. She wanted them to see it, hoped they understood it. "The bird is gone, I'd rather you not be here when it returns. Please, answer the questions you were asked. Who sent you? Who were you after? Do that and we'll let you go, as long as you realize the danger of this profession." She steps towards them hands cupped in front of her, taking the magic of the circle against evil with her. Once they are under its effect, she adds. "I can offer you a day's worth of provisions, just leave all of this behind you."

Castng Magic vestament for +2 Enh to Armor for 10 hours.. I can hand a few of those out if someone would like it.

The Magic Circle should suppress the domination effect, but if they try to run away, it would return.

Diplomacy [roll0]

Kvard51

2018-01-06, 12:13 PM

"I would prefer to avoid a fight today, if possible. I would also prefer to never see that horrid bird eat again. So my vote is to get Father Lucius and Thesa out of danger. I hate to leave the horses, but I believe flight, low and through the hills,
gives us the best chance at avoiding Judge Thornton and his men." Issachar speaks quietly, but with the confidence won by avoiding capture by the Order for almost a year.

Alias_Trench

2018-01-11, 08:26 PM

THE PARTY
Aulinair nodded. "I received Master Isschar's message and sent to Sister Khallis. She knows of our arrival and offers Father Lucius sanctuary in Jor'daams." She tightened her lips. Aurix knew although Khallis was a valuable source of information for the Resistance about the happenings in the human lands, many found her newfound faith in Mornay distasteful and an affront to Nai'Tuhra, the patron deity of the elves. Some considered her conversion a betrayal of her heritage. Aurix did not detect anything different about Aulinair from their previous meetings.

"I don't think the fly spell would work on these animals." She said, pointing at the horses. One of the dominated bandits guffawed but the vacant look did not leave his eyes. They stood harmlessly with their bows on the ground. Aulinair shrugged. "And what do you plan to do with them?"

Aurix narrowed his eyes. Nothing about the way she was speaking told Aurix that she was lying but there was the sense there that she was deliberately not answering his latter question. Either it was a need to know piece of information or Aurix wouldn't like what the information was. Judging by the choice of allies present he figured it was probably the latter. Aurix sighed, Allies indeed...

"Very well Aulinair, keep your secrets. I trust that I will be informed in time."

With their meeting essentially concluded Aurix returned to the rest of the group.

Upon returning to the group and overhearing the conversation Aurix responded,

"One's race is not a definitive marker for allegiance. Actions are but perhaps that bitterness overrides common sense and wisdom... It has in the past and I don't see this cycle of hatred ending anytime soon." Aurix remarked sadly. "You and your familiar are not incorrect there Keyris though I cannot speak for others I have been prepared for an altercation should we run into the Inquisition. Watching the skies for enemies may be a moot point however. I figure that if they were flying they would have arrived well before now. That signal in itself would have seen to that and you would have seen them in your own approach if they were."

Aurix declined the offer of extra magical protections and watched briefly as Thesa went to speak to the two dominated brigands while he continued to listen to the conversation around him. Turning his attention back Issachar mentioned dismay at leaving the horses.

"Indeed it will be sad to leave such dependable travelling companions behind and once we clear the obstacle the inquisition poses it will make travelling more difficult, but if we do choose to evade by flying taking them poses many an impracticality that we have no solution for."

Aurix looked over to Bokki who looked distinctly uncomfortable, more so than usual. Deciding to take it into his own hands Aurix looked back at Issachar and sighed, "it is possible we will be leaving behind another travelling companion", giving a brief nod of the head towards Bokki before moving over to join him.

"Bokki, old friend. I know that this journey was not what you had in mind when I asked for your assistance and knowing your preferences I figured I'd offer you an out. You are in no way beholden to me so I cannot force you to stay, nor can I force you to go. That is your decision, however, should you decide to go, as recompense for your time I'd like you to take our horses. It is likely we will not be able to bring them with us and should you decide to go, you could sell them in town for a tidy sum. I know it's not your usual fee but circumstances being what they are..."

If you choose to use this offer Plushie, Aurix will shake Bokki's hand monkey grip style with platitudes like "until we meet again"
and "say hi to your uncle for me" before returning to the group to explain what's going on and giving the rest of the party, though most likely issachar since they technically know each other the best, the chance to RP their farewells

Plushie Arz

2018-01-15, 08:53 AM

THE PARTY
With little encouragement from Lucius, the dominated bandits offered no resistance to Thesa's line of questioning.

"Gorram and his lads told us to join him. Said there was promise of gold and good sport. He had friends in the Order and said the soldiers will leave us alone."

After Thesa was finished with the two men, they picked up the offered provisions and left for the hills with slow, measured steps. Aulinair looked on with pursed lips, and she did not say anything.

Bokki nodded at Aurix's offer with a smile.

"I'll take the horses back to town. There's danger ahead and I'll make sure the townpeople aren't hurt by whoever's coming. We will meet again"

DM: Is Lethio still content to follow with attacking the mounted inquisitors?

Plushie Arz

2018-01-17, 09:50 AM

LETHIO
Obaith soared overhead, out of spell range of the riders below. The riders below briefly paused, having noticed the bird and its rider and soon gave chase. With a squeeze of his legs, Lethio commanded his vicious companion to relieve itself in the skies. The remnants of the monstrous bird's last meal showered down below. To the druid's chagrin, the foul cascade of bird droppings and semi-dissolved bone missed the inquisitors but it was clear he had caught their attention and they were giving pursuit.

Kvard51

2018-01-17, 11:46 AM

Sensing a decision had been reached, Issachar makes his goodbyes to Bokki.

He then casts a spell, transforming himself into a huge creature that looks like a kite. "Pile on. Let's take advantage of the time we have and get under the cover of the mountains. Once there, we can hunker down until I can study my spellbook. Tomorrow I will get us all to Oledentown safely."

Extended Polymorph into a 10HD Huge Cloaker

Ryuuk

2018-01-18, 06:37 PM

Thesa watches the men go, unsure how to feel about their answer. So they were in fact willing to work with men such as these. For what it was worth, she hoped it meant that in the inquisition's eyes, the impure could work their way back. It was... the kindest interpretation.

Issachar's transformation was unexpected. She took a step back in surprise before slowly approaching. Carefully, she steps on. "Branden, can Nyx follow us from the ground?"

"If not, it may be strange, but I think I can help her run alongside us."

Thesa offers a casting of Air Walk on Nyx, if needed.

Breitheamh

2018-01-18, 06:50 PM

Branden

After distributing the equipment from the defeated, Branden reties the bindings on the man Nyx carries, then answers Thesa.

"Do you mean to give her flight? It might be tricky, but I think I can keep her from panicking. Go for it."

Ryuuk

2018-01-19, 09:48 PM

"Flight, but not quite like in Anastasia's notes. It's like... It lets you decide if there's solid footing beneath your boots with every step. You can move to the heavens if you walk as if climbing a flight of stairs, or over hills that aren't really there. Give me a moment."

"Here girl. Easy." Guide our steps as we have faith She goes over to Nyx and places a hand on her. Once the spell is cast, she gives her a scratch and smiles.

"Once you get it, it's soothing the way the wind blows up there."

Casting Air Walk on Nyx

Aldurin

2018-01-19, 09:50 PM

Lethio is disappointed, but still satisfied to get the inquisition's attention. He directs Obaith to fly back towards the rest of the group he's been charged with protecting.

Plushie Arz

2018-01-21, 09:22 AM

DM: +400xp to the group. DM: I will roll a percentage change to see if the Inquisitors are able to follow Lethio to the rest of the group. There is an 85% chance they can follow Obaith to where Issachar and the rest of the party are.
[roll0]

THE PARTY
Issachar's body contorted and flattened. His clothes and equipment merged into his body and flattened into the round, leathery disk form of a common cloaker. Branden and Aurix had heard of those creatures living in the dark caverns of the Great Dividing Chain. They were known to move silently on the cavern ceilings, and preyed on unwary travellers. In addition to their stealthiness, they were also known for their great strength and they could easily carry a small group of people on their side.

"A polymorph, Master Issachar? You weren't able to cast this spell the last time we met. It is advanced transmutation, what some consider to be the signature spell from that school. I'm impressed."

Issachar couldn't see Aulinair's expression but it was the first hint of warmth he had heard from her all day. With Lucius, Keyiris, Thesa and Aurix on his back, the mage took to the skies. Aulinair, Branden, Skathus and Nyx followed as they flew eastwards, away from Chan'taal.

* * *

Obaith and Lethio soared above the skies, keeping an eye on the group of mounted inquisitors below. Their horses moved much faster than normal mounts. They did not seem bothered by the hard, hilly terrain or light brushland which would have crippled any normal animal which attempted to run through it. The riders split into two groups, with eight keeping chase. The sun was starting to rise now and Obaith could smell the familiar smell of the pegasus and humans which they met earlier this morning upwind. It seemed they took to the air to evade the inquisitors. They were still some distance away but an hours flight would bring them there.

* * *

The group had a head start in the skies and they were confident they could reach Oldentown before the Inquisitors could intercept them. However, Issachar was unfamiliar with this new form and the unexpected weight of his passengers made him travel slowly. The uneven flight made Lucius, Thesa and Aurix rather sickly. This was not the same as a flight spell, where they had complete control over the altitude and direction. Stray insects blew into their faces and a strong gust was blowing eastward. They clung on for their dear lives.

Alias_Trench

2018-01-22, 09:46 AM

The enormous creature Issachar polymorphed himself into was something of night terrors told to children to keep them on the straight and narrow by their parents but his experience to date had never been with one the size the wizard had chosen. The flight east and north was bumpy to say the least and Aurix after the first few lurches switched his stance to that of the Spider's dance, rather than his usual hunter's sense, favouring not falling from a great height rather than catching the scents on the wind. Still somewhat queasy and not trusting himself to talk lest his breakfast prefer to speak on his behalf on the long flight, Aurix continually scanned the land below, or what he could see of it, for signs of the inquisition, and higher up signs of their wayward companion Lethio and his companion Obaith.

Take 10 = 25

Ryuuk

2018-01-22, 10:03 PM

Thesa holds on, trying to peer towards the earth below during the flight. She was calm, smiling, even as her stomach churned and insects met their end trapped in her hair. She could wash up once they landed, if the sickening feeling became too much, the goddesses would allow her a panacea. If she slipped, and found herself racing towards the earth, an updraft would save her and her feet would find the air solid as stone.

She was blessed with every tool she could need. She held on from Issachar's front rim and looked onward.

Will follow Aurix and roll Spot

[roll0]

Plushie Arz

2018-01-23, 07:57 AM

THE PARTY
The terrain grew rockier and more uneven as Issachar flew the group away from the main road, towards the Great Dividing Chain. Scatterings of blasted trees and rocks dotted the ground and Aurix saw the shadows cast by the rising sun. To the south-west, a winged creature was approaching.

Ryuuk

2018-01-25, 12:47 PM

Thesa watches the scenery change from up above. When whatever winged creature is approaching comes to view, Thesa adjusts herself to better see it. She takes a moment for her stomach to settle before attempting to speak. "Is that Master Lethio?"

Spot check to try to make out details on the winged creature: [roll0]

Plushie Arz

2018-01-27, 08:01 AM

THE PARTY
The familiar shape of the horrid eagle, complete with its scales, hardened feathers and the scraggly rider on its back made its way towards the group. The bird was flying at average speed, quite unlike how it took off just an hour earlier. The sunlight cast a bronze hue over the crusty feathers of the large bird.

As Lethio and Obaith approached, the rest of group noticed a trail of dust rising from the ground below. Eight riders followed the bird in a spearhead formation, their horses almost gliding effortlessly through the rocky terrain and brushland. They wore the white and grey of the Order, although it was almost impossible to discern any further details at their current speed and the distance.

BRANDEN
Judge Thornton never travelled so openly in such a small group. Branden knew his former mentor was familiar with hunting and baiting his quarry, waiting until exhaustion did the bulk of his work. The holy man was not a ranger but he had the instincts of one. He remembered the times the Raven Wolves escaped only by the skin of their teeth. If the riders pursuing Lethio worked for Thornton,
they would not be alone.

Kvard51

2018-01-29, 03:03 PM

He's led them right to us!?! Issachar's frustration would definitely show, if he had a humanoid face. But the face of a cloaker is harder to read. He begins searching for a defensible place to land, knowing he can't outrun soldiers on horseback loaded down as he is.

Search [roll0] for a defensible hill or hard to approach cliff face to put our backs against.

Aldurin

2018-01-29, 08:53 PM

Lethio directs Obaith to glide next to the rest of the group, shouting over the wind. "Eight in pursuit, eight more broke off from the group after they started chasing me. If we turn on them now we can pick off half of their force before the others show up!"

happycube

2018-01-29, 10:34 PM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris grumbled briefly to himself, peeved at Aulinair's comment regarding the signature spell of transmutation. However, now was not the time, and so rather than having Aza’Athavariel debate the fine points of magical theory, he let the moment pass, nodding in approval at Issachar’s spell and plan. Delighted at his new ally’s display of arcane power, Keyiris mounted up when the time came.

* * *

Keyiris seemed to take the journey better than the others; his own specialization in transmutation magics and his earlier eagle-borne flight had acclimated him well to such means of travel. While he had never himself worn a cloaker’s form, its merit for load-bearing flight was undeniable, and Keyiris made a note of it for future use. He would have to discuss with Issachar what other fantastic creatures the man might be familiar with, when he was once more a man, of course.

His mind drifting to spell theory, Keyiris was lost in thought when Obaith once more flew into view. Thesa’s voice jolted him from his silent reverie, and he looked on with a pained half-smile as Lethio approached with the foe in tow. He’s done it, tact be damned. Keyiris grimaced as the druid shouted his findings, and he looked expectantly to the others, Branden moreso than anyone else. “What say you?”

Plushie Arz

2018-01-30, 07:55 AM

THE PARTY
The ground below was rocky and uneven but it offered little protection from the mounted inquisitors. They were gaining on the polymorphed mage and it was only a matter of time before they overtook him. Despite his poor cloaker eyesight, Issachar spotted an outcrop four hundred feet away which dropped steeply into thorny bushes below. The inquisitors could only approach from the west and the sharp fall could deter the horses, no matter what enchantments protected their movement. There was enough room for the party to gather and make their stand.

Breitheamh

2018-01-30, 06:29 PM

Branden

When Branden sees Lethio and Obaith pursued by the riders and hears Lethio's call to fight them right here, his mind begins racing into crisis mode. He and Skathus scan the ground for any defensible position, and Skathus whinnies and gestures when he sees the outcropping that Issachar seemed to be headed for.

Branden quickly forms a plan and yells back toward Lethio, "Or we can be easily surrounded and destroyed! You've never fought Judge Thornton before!"

He calls out to the others, "Keep going and try to set up a defense at that outcropping," he points, "I'll try to slow them down a bit! Keep your eyes sharp for the others in Thornton's crew!" Then he whistles for Nyx and points at Father Lucius, yelling "Defend!"

With that, Skathus wheels as Branden pulls out three dragonsbreath arrows and picks out the horses he wants to target. He says a silent prayer to Mornay, gives a quick look around for any sign of the other group, and then braces himself as Skathus dives toward the ground, opening his wings and landing lithely with the inquisitors just at the edge of Branden's range with a bow.

Branden's sights his shots, and looses three arrows in quick succession, one at each of the leading three horses, figuring that the sight of any horses on fire will panic all of the inquisitors' mounts.

Spot [roll0]

Attack rolls (each that hits will force a DC 15 reflex save from the horse to avoid catching on fire)

[roll1] (crit confirm [roll2])
Damage [roll3]+1 fire (crit [roll4])

[roll5] (crit confirm [roll6])
Damage [roll7]+1 fire (crit [roll8])

[roll9] (crit confirm [roll10])
Damage [roll11]+1 fire (crit [roll12])

Ryuuk

2018-01-30, 09:28 PM

As Branden splinters from the group, Thesa clutches her holy symbol with one hand and holds on to Issachar with the other. She closes her eyes and utters a prayer. "Guide our steps as we have faith"

She obeys and looks around, Branden seemed certain the other would not be far behind. They were going to cause the goddess to grieve, weren't they?

Casting Air Walk on herself

Spot: [roll0]

Alias_Trench

2018-01-31, 08:59 AM

Aurix saw the bird and its master return from the south with a small group of pursuers in tow. It seemed everyone else had also noticed and Lethio shouted a call to arms as he approached. Branden splintered off from the group, moving to engage the inquisitors from range. Aurix gritted his teeth, swallowed the bile that was sitting in his throat from the ride, and turned to view the situation that was unfolding. Issachar seemed to be heading for an outcropping that Branden had also pointed out. It seemed like it would be defensible but Aurix was hoping to engage the inquisitors before they got close enough to try to harm his wards. Having minimal ranged capability and only effective within a certain range, Aurix continued to assess the situation and waiting for an opportune moment.

@Plushie, how high up are we/how high up is the outcropping? Aurix might try and pull the same tactic he used against the centipede constructs in the jungle but I need to know if it would be completely suicidal or only mildly suicidal at this point

Plushie Arz

2018-01-31, 09:07 AM

THE GROUP
DM: The party is three hundred feet above the air. The outcrop rises about 40 feet above ground but it's difficult to estimate the total drop because the terrain inclines and is incredibly uneven.

Reflex 1:[roll0]
Reflex 2:[roll1]
Reflex 3:[roll2]

Branden darted in and out of the group of inquisitors on Skathus' back, keeping himself out of spell range. He was all too familiar with the spells of holding and restraint favoured by Thornton's men - spells which robbed casters of their senses and warriors of their strength. Fortunately for him, they were of limited effectiveness at longer distances. He loosened three arrows at the foremost horses. They were not enough to kill the beasts but one of the destriers caught aflame and it collapsed to the ground in terror, bringing its rider down with it.

Some two hundred feet away from the ledge, Skathus spotted the openings of a cave hidden behind a pile of stones. With a neigh, he alerted Branden to its location. It was a risky proposition. If the cave was connected to a deeper network, it could provide for some measure of protection against the Order inquisitors. The horses will be unable to accompany them underground and the snaking tunnels would slow their progress, and expose them to ambush. However, if the caves were sealed on the other end, it could be a death trap and Thornton could easily smoke them out.

Kvard51

2018-02-01, 09:56 PM

Issachar circles the outcrop as he makes his descent. He lands on the largest clear spot he can see, and shakes himself lightly to encourage disembarking by his passengers. As the last of them set their feet on the ground, he transforms back into himself and begins casting again with a rod in hand. This time, the changes are not so drastic, but striking nonetheless, as he becomes a winged, elven version of himself.

"I would that we didn't have to fight today, but it has come upon us.
Thanks to our horrid friend, anyway. I suggest we all prepare in useful ways. I will cast another spell to speed our actions when the time comes, so stay low and stay close until the inquisitors reach arrow range."

Cast Extended Alter Self (w/ the rod) to transmute into an Avariel and Eyes of the Avoral to gain better vision. Haste is readied to cast on the party.

Current Spells: Greater Mage Armor - +6 AC, Eyes of the Avoral - +8 Spot for 100 minutes, Alter Self - Avariel: http://dnd.arkalseif.info/races/races-of-faerun--23/avariel--95/index.html

happycube

2018-02-02, 11:16 AM

KEYIRIS

The others' responses were enough of an answer for Keyiris, and he began weaving a number of spells around himself. At Issachar's prompting, Keyiris hopped from the polymorphed mage's back onto the stone of the outcropping, drawing his longsword as he went. He looked on as Issachar changed shape once more, raising an eyebrow at his ultimate form, and speaking up when the other mage had finished. "Save your breath for a different spell. I will cast the one you intended when the time comes," he declared, holding a retrieved licorice root shaving at eye level between the two of them.

Aza’Athavariel spoke up at Keyiris' comment, in the hopes of clarifying his meaning for those unfamiliar with the way of a swiftblade. "If we understood correctly that you intend to invoke Haste once more, you need not do so. Its casting is second nature and comes more quickly to my master than most mages; it would be more efficient to divert your arcane powers elsewhere," the amulet uttered as Keyiris tucked it again into the neck of his tunic, obscuring it from view.

Just now truly addressing the assembled group for the first time, Keyiris looked to each of the others moving about the outcropping, earnestly yet inelegantly offering his spellcasting abilities. "Would any of you find it advantageous to briefly possess flight, invisibility, greater size or a form that is not your own?" he asked, gesturing to himself with the open hand not holding his blade. Suddenly and unceremoniously turning to Thesa, Keyiris spoke now to her in particular, forcing a grateful smile. "I would appreciate the protective blessing you offered before our flight." His intentions in preparing made clear, Keyiris glanced expectantly to the others, and in the direction of the coming battle.

Keyiris casts Heart of Earth on himself, as well as Shield if the Inquisitors are expected to arrive in much less than 10 minutes. If necessary, he will hold back with the latter spell until the enemy is closer.

Keyiris also has limited castings of Fly (1), Invisibility (2), Enlarge Person (1) and/or Polymorph (2) for those who want them. The durations for each of those spells is 10 minutes.

Ryuuk

2018-02-03, 12:29 AM

As Isaachar lands, Thesa steps onto the ground and lets everything settle. She watches him transform, eyes wide. The form of an angel with elven features was quite a step up from the demon that had carried them here. She takes a few steps onto the air, for a better view, but stops when Keyiris calls to her.

She smiles, nodding. "Of course, hold still." She takes a deep breath and lays a hand on Keyiris, murmuring a short recitation as she does so. Protect us. As long as the goddess answered her prayers, she felt she was on the right path, in her favor. It was a good thought, given her company and the men they were to stand against.

Casting Magic Vestement on Keyiris (10 Hours, +2 Enh to Armor bonus)

Alias_Trench

2018-02-05, 08:10 AM

"A fight was an eventuality we would have had to prepare ourselves for Lethio or not. Tactucally aplitting their number works somewhat to our advantage. We now know that they number arround 16 men and judging by the movement of their mounts, they also have adept spellcasters." Aurix replied to Issachar. "We will simply have to adapt to the situation as it presents itself"
Aurix then turned to Keyris "I dont want it cast now but if you are in a position to increase my size just before we enter combat or whilst we're in combat and it is tactically sound to do so I consent to and would appreciate the boon."

Aurix kept his eyes peeled to the surroundings, looking at both the charging inquisitors but also for signs of the rest of their entourage.
Spot [roll0]

Plushie Arz

2018-02-08, 08:02 AM

THE GROUP

https://i.imgur.com/xbuho96.png

The group did not have to wait long until they saw movement through the coarse brushes. Aulinair uttered a quick chant and an aura quickly formed over her body, encasing her skin in a substance harder than stone. At first, they thought another inquisitor had joined the group but the moment they glimpsed the clockwork wings and metal-clad body of the newcomer, they quickly changed their minds. The newcomer resembled a metallic centaur, with barbed chains in place of its forearms and covered in golden filigree patterns. Its frozen, emotionless visage slowly scanned the group, until it stopped at Lucius. Its voice was an unworldly monotone.

"The fugitive is located. I am sanctioned to use lethal force to apprehend the fugitive. Please cooperate to avoid unnecessary harm."

ISSACHAR
Issachar did not think he would see one of the inevitables in person until he gazed upon the mechanical body of this creature. The inevitables were divine servants of the Dawnbringer, and they assisted the Radiants in their purge of heretics and unbelievers. Unmoved by pleas or threats, they are relentless hunters and executioners of the guilty and nonbelievers alike. Their metallic hides form part of their body and they are resistant to most lesser spells and attacks. This particular inevitable was known as a Zelekhut. Its primary weapons were the two chains linked to their forearms, and it was capable of flight.

DM: Aulinair cast Stoneskin. Branden goes first.

Initiative
Aurix [roll0]
Lucius [roll1]
Issachar [roll2]
Skathus [roll3]
Branden [roll4]
Thesa [roll5]
Obaith [roll6]
Aulinair [roll7]
Lethio [roll8]
Keyiris [roll9]
Nyx [roll10]

Zelehhut: [roll11]
Inquisitors: [roll12]

Alias_Trench

2018-02-12, 05:34 PM

The newcomer resembled a metallic centaur, with barbed chains in place of its forearms and covered in golden filigree patterns. Its frozen, emotionless visage slowly scanned the group, until it stopped at Lucius. Its voice was an unworldly monotone.

"The fugitive is located. I am sanctioned to use lethal force to apprehend the fugitive. Please cooperate to avoid unnecessary harm."

Upon seeing the mechanical creature Aurix plumbed his memory for anything that resembled but came up with nothing. Aurix was immediately wary of the creature and started making some assumptions as it reminded him of the clockwork constructs the order had brought against the Lizardfolk but it was far too sophisticated to be human in design.

Aurix stopped his unbridled train of thought and turned to his more learned colleague Issachar "What is that creature?"

AC
FF
Touch

23
21
18

Reflex
Fort
Will

12
13
14

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

94

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Resistance
+1 Resistance bonus on saving throws
1 minute
[roll0] rounds remaining

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Active Stance: Dance of the Spider - Gain 20ft climb speed

Crusader granted
Swordsage
Warblade

1
Crusader's Strike
Shadowstride
Mountain Hammer

2
Vanguard Strike
Deathmark
Wall of Blades

3
Douse the Flames
Cloak of Deception
Sudden Leap

4
Foe Hammer
Shadow Blade Technique

5
Tactical Strike
Moment of Perfect Mind

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

happycube

2018-02-13, 07:13 AM

KEYIRIS

And so begins our inevitable battle. The thought and wordplay brought a wry smile to Keyiris' lips as his mind raced ahead, anticipating the instinctive rush of magic as he recalled the diagrams and texts he'd studied regarding such creatures. Seeking to elucidate the situation for the others as quickly as possible, Keyiris shouted a response at Aurix's query to Issachar, already channeling the magic of his signature Haste spell as he did so. "Zelekhut, inevitable. Say when you want the spell." The words came with a nod to Aurix as Keyiris' form shimmered and distorted with the magic.

"Can't reason with it; this is the fight!" he shouted with a glance to the group as a whole, hafting his longsword as he dashed toward the metallic creature before them. In less than three seconds he had closed the distance to the inevitable, flashing his blade at it in a single powerful stroke to test its defences, and bounding back to his compatriots just as quickly as he had left. "Mind its spells and don't use illusions," he huffed, nearly returning to the group's ranks as he turned to face the foes once more.

Swift action: cast Haste
Free action: place offhand onto longsword, now wielding it in two hands
Move action: move to F9, use standard action to attack via Spring Attack, then move to I13; no AoO's are provoked from the Zelekhut
Standard action: attack Zelekhut using Spring Attack and Power Attack with a -3 penalty to hit for +6 to damage

Attack: [roll0] to hit, for [roll1] + [roll2] (Swift Surge)

[roll3] to confirm, for [roll4] nevermind, it's a construct...

AC
FF
Touch

25 (24 +1 Haste)

21

17

Reflex
Fort
Will

14 (13 +1 Haste)

8

10

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

55+(5+20) temp

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Fire 5

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Shield
+4 shield bonus to AC
2/100 rounds

Haste
+1 dodge bonus to AC, +1 to attack rolls, +1 to reflex saves
1/10 rounds

Knowledge Devotion
+4 to attack and damage rolls vs. humanoids and animals, +5 vs. outsiders
Encounter

Power Attack
-3 to hit, +6 to damage (two-handed)
Round

Dodge
+1 dodge to AC vs. Zelekhut

Conditional Modifiers:
Special: 40% miss chance (Blurred Alacrity class feature), +1d6 damage if moving at least 10 ft. (Swift Surge class feature)

Breitheamh

2018-02-15, 05:37 PM

Branden

Taking quick stock of the situation, Branden observes how the fight is developing and waits for the opening he needs. He holds his feet tight against Skathus' sides, ready to spur him into action quickly.

Plushie Arz

2018-02-16, 05:55 AM

THE PARTY
Keyiris's blade cut deep along the Inevitable's metal body, fracturing the gears and sculpted plates. It turned its expressionless face towards the elf and took a momentary step back to assess the situation. To Keyiris' horror, the metal started closing around the wounds, repairing its body.

"You have failed to co-operate. You are sanctioned for removal."

A single chain lashed out at the elf, charged with white bolts of electricity. Keyiris dodged the first sweep but he did not anticipate the inevitable could move so quickly. The chain whipped around and smashed into the elf's abdomen, the force shattering his ribs and knocking the air from his lungs.

Step to F9-G10
Attack1: [roll0]
Critical: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]+[roll3]

Attack2: [roll4]
Critical: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6]+[roll7] [24 Damage due to Critical]

Alias_Trench

2018-02-17, 09:58 AM

Round 1

Keyris had rapidly let off arcane magic that filled Aurix's senses with the smell of anise while shooting off a short string of words which made very little difference to his original question. It had a name now, and upon expansion from Keyris he knew it to have spellcasting ability and was resistant against illusion magic. Then he turned into a blur of movement and skirmished with the 'inevitable', cutting a deep gash in it's metal hide, suffering a wicked looking chain across his torso for his troubles. Aurix noted that the metal skin of the centaur like construct was already starting to knit back together, very much like the centepede like constucts he had faced in the past. Aurix turned to Issachar, Father Lucius and Thesa,
"I'm going in. Hopefully if I get in its face I can keep it from getting closer to you."

With that Aurix, shifted his stance to improve his protections and then dashed out to close the gap between the construct and himself, letting keyris' speed enhancing magic carry him that little bit further than his crippled leg would usually allow. He interposed himself between the machine an Keyris seeing how badly hurt his new comrade now was. Aurix said as he passed "whenever you get the opportunity".
His strike moved to hobble the creature while the gash in its side slowly closed. Aurix sought to give his allies the best chance at hitting the delicate internal workings of the machine.

AC

FF

Touch

24

21

19

Reflex

Fort

Will

13

13

14

Wounds

Non Lethal Damage

MAX HP

94

DR

SR

Energy Resist/Immunity

cold 10

Buffs/Conditions

Details

Duration

Resistance

+1 Resistance bonus on saving throws

1 minute
3 rounds remaining

Haste

Double move speed (+15ft enhancement)
+1 to AC (dodge), to hit, Reflex saves, bonus attack at full BAB on full attack action

10 rounds remaining

Pearl of Black doubt

+2 AC cumulative AC each time an enemy missess.

indefinite

Knowlege Devotion (Outsiders)

+1 to hit and damage against creatures of the Outsider type

end of combat

Knowledge Devotion (Humanoids)

+2 to hit and damage against creatures of the Humanoid type

end of combat

Immediate action counter attack - Wall of blades

AC or attack roll vs incoming strike (to be used on the first non critical hit)

Conditional Modifiers: if adjacent 2 foes with no ally within 30ft, Bullybasher's Gauntlets gain +1 weapon enhancement and +1d6
Special:

Active Stance: Pearl of Black Doubt - each time an enemy misses Aurix, he gains +2 AC until the start of his next turn

Crusader granted

Swordsage

Warblade

1

Crusader's Strike

Shadowstride

Mountain Hammer

2

Vanguard Strike

Deathmark

Wall of Blades

3

Douse the Flames

Cloak of Deception

Sudden Leap

4

Foe Hammer

Shadow Blade Technique

5

Tactical Strike

Moment of Perfect Mind

Action

Roll

Damage

Type

Special

DM

Swift - Change stance to Pearl off Black Doubt

+2 AC each time an enemy misses Aurix until the start of his next turn

Move - M14:H11

Standard - Vanguard Strike

[roll0]
crit confirm
[roll1]

[roll2]
Crit
[roll3]
+1 CON damage

Magical, Bludgeoning, Manoeuvre

If this attack hits, all allies gain +4 bonus on ranged and melee attacks against the target until the start of Aurix's next turn

Kvard51

2018-02-17, 07:27 PM

Seeing the opening provided by Aurix' attack, Issachar speaks words of elemental magic, firing two fiery rays at the closing gash. As the fire leaves his hands, he moves across the outcrop, looking for any other inquisitors closing from the rear.

Scorching Ray (2 rays) Ranged Touch Attack [roll0]
for [roll1] fire damage. [roll2] for [roll3] fire damage.

Move from O15 to R17

Spot check [roll4] to look for more attackers from the back.

Plushie Arz

2018-02-19, 03:48 AM

https://i.imgur.com/D6IJCUk.png

Spell Resistance: [roll0]

Aurix pummelled the divine construct with his fists but he found the Inevitable to be somewhat impervious to his attack. A blow which would have crushed the skull of a lesser man barely dented the metal plates.

Two rays of flame sprouted from Issachar's fingertips and scorched the Zelekhut's wings. A glob of molten dripped from its body but it quickly cooled and started repairing itself...

The mage noticed the Inquisitors behind the Zelekhut. There were eight - three within immediate blast range of the construct and five others mounted behind them, around forty feet away. They were on guard, the beginning of a barrage of spells and divine litanies prepared at their fingertips.

Ryuuk

2018-02-19, 05:30 PM

(Out of order, but I may be away for a few days and would like it to be available.)

Thesa stays back, frozen, awestruck at the metal angel and its dictum. She holds her holy symbol to her heart, whispering a prayer under her breath. It was an agent of the goddess, judgement come down to strike against the evils of the world. Her mind went to the sermons back home and Father Monroe's teachings. She remembered how sever the punishment seemed to her, at times, but how it was a necessity in a world that was just as sever. Face to face to this judgement, her pilgrimage seemed foolish.

She felt Keyris' magic come over her, saw as he rushed to meet it in combat, and how it promptly retaliated with lightning and chains that snapped through the air. She shakes her head, listening to Aurix and watching him go meet it as well. Watches the bolts of fire the fly from Issachar's fingers while holding her breath. This went against everything she had been taught growing up, but they had already sent men after them. Dangerous men. She was already subject to their judgement. Every step she took would be wrong, but she had to take them anyway.

She runs around Nyx, her knuckles turning white around her holy symbol. Her first few steps are on the ground, but she takes to the air as she goes. She looks for the right angle, but there wasn't one as she wished. She settles. A winter's winds, answer my call. With an exaggerated motion, she arcs her hands back and thrusts them forward, her symbol on display. She feared not for the angel, instead she watched the man and horse at the edge of the blast and prayed he made it out battered, but alive and unwilling to pursue.

Move: Move to F18, 10ft in the air (Air Walk)
Standard: Cast Boreal Wind (DC 22 Fort Negates, SR: [roll0], lasts 6 rounds. Damage: [roll1], move 30ft away from Thesa
- Placement: Start D17 to G17, continues straight along D and G. 20ft Wide by 20ft Tall, by 840ft Long.

AC
FF
Touch

26 + 2 if evil
23 + 2 if evil
21 + 2 if evil

Reflex
Fort
Will

8 + 2 if evil
9 + 2 if evil
14 + 2 if evil

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

0
0
62

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Magic Circle Against Evil
As Protection From Evil in 10ft emanation centered on self
100 minutes - Time since casting

Air Walk
Walk on Air
100 minutes

Magic Vestment
+2 Enh to Armor
10 Hours

Haste
+30 Enh Speed, +1 Attack Rolls, AC, Dodge, Reflex
100 minutes - Time since casting

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Spells Cast:
1 1st Level: Lesser Vigor
2 2nd Level: Divine Insight, Spiritual Weapon
3 3rd Level: Magic Circle against Evil, 2 x Magic Vestment
3 4th Level: Heightened Hold Person, 2 x Air Walk
1 5th Level: Boreal Wind

Aldurin

2018-02-21, 07:11 PM

Lethio narrows his eye as Zelekhut appears, his muscles tensing as he watches his allies struggle to inflict more damage than the construct can repair. With the other inquisitors still a ways out from being in range, he sets his priorities on the present threat. He flies Lethio on a curving path, then when that curve gets close enough to include the wolf in his spell. When he finishes both Nyx and Obaith double in size and ripple with magical strength and protection. Satisfied, he continues the curve towards the inevitable, directing the now-massive Obaith to attack when it lands within reach of the creature.

Obaith moves to land at I9-J10, along a southward curve to put Nyx in range of Lethio's spell. At the middle of that movement, Lethio casts Animal Growth (concentration [roll0] for casting while mounted), targeting Obaith and Nyx. Obaith will then make a talon attack against Zelekhut.
Duration: 10 minutes.
The affected creatures increase to the next size category, receive +8 Strength -2 Dex and +4 Con size bonuses. They gain +2 natural armor to AC, DR 10/magic and +4 resistance bonus to saving throws.
Obaith will occupy I8-K-10 to account for now being Huge size.

Attack:
[roll1]
Damage:
[roll2] + [roll3] acid

Lethio's Spells:
0th: Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Mending, Purify Food and Drink, Read Magic
1st: Endure Elements, Jump, Entangle, Speak With Animals, Cure Light Wounds x2
2nd: Tree Shape x2, Lesser Restoration x2, Bull's Strength, Scent (Comp. Div)
3rd: Nature's Favor (Comp. Div) x2, Cure Moderate Wounds, Mass Resist Energy (Comp. Arc)
4th: Freedom of Movement, Forestfold (Comp. Div), Iconic Manifestation (Comp. Champ), Flame Strike, Dispel Magic
5th: Death Ward, Cure Critical Wounds, Animal Growth

Breitheamh

2018-02-23, 10:52 AM

Branden and Skathus

At the sight of the zelekhut largely ignoring his allies' attacks, Branden thinks quickly to himself that perhaps if he is able to defeat whoever brought it here, it will disappear itself. He gives Skathus a quick pat on the ribs and points. The pegasus whinnies in understanding and wheels over the tree to the west of their companions, intending to come around and strafe the approaching inquisitors.

Branden calls out to Nyx, "Attack, horse!" as he flies, pulling four flametongue arrows from his quiver. He waits until he is just over head of the inquisitors, and then launches, shooting one arrow at each of the three closest, sending the fourth at the last in line just for good measure.

Then Skathus spreads his wings and wheels tightly back toward the group, bringing Branden and himself almost back to where they started.

Branden:
Free action to handle Nyx.
Full attack:
Attack at B9 [roll0] (crit confirm [roll1])
Damage to B9 [roll2] + [roll3] + 1 fire (crit [roll4])

Attack at B5 [roll5] (crit confirm [roll6])
Damage to B5 [roll7] + [roll8] + 1 fire (crit [roll9])

Attack 1 at E3 [roll10] (crit confirm [roll11])
Damage to E3 [roll12] + [roll13] + 1 fire (crit [roll14])
Attack 2 at E3 [roll15] (crit confirm [roll16])
Damage to E3 [roll17] + [roll18] + 1 fire (crit [roll19])

Current AC 26, Touch 19, FF 20

Skathus:
Double Move flying over the tree at C13, 30 ft over the heads of the inquisitors, and then over the tree at I3 and back to M11
(I'm pretty sure with all the penalties for turning and climbing, that's about 300, but I'm not sure, and I've got to get to work, so if someone wants to check my work, that'd be great. If I couldn't make it to M11, just put the closest the full movement could have gotten me. If could have gotten farther, no big deal, I'll stay.)

Plushie Arz

2018-02-27, 09:01 AM

https://i.imgur.com/aKfckPK.png

Thesa's spell was deflected by the inevitable's defences. It seemed as if an aura of null magic surrounded the construct, making it highly resistant to divine and arcane attacks.

Obaith and Nyx both grew to massive sizes and the horrid eagle lashed out at the Zelekhut with its sharp talons. It made a deep gouge in the inevitable's breastplate.

Three of Branden's arrows found their mark and the closest Inquisitor rolled from his horse as the shaft pierced his sides. However, two arrows were not enough to fell him and he advanced with a quiet fervor in eyes, a look Branden was all too familiar with from his former days under Thornton's tutelage.

Two spells resolved - one a spell of negation centred around Aurix, Lethio, Keyiris, Nyx and Obaith, while another was a prayer to Mornay for immolation. A column of flames erupted around Issachar and Aulinair, scalding them with fiery wrath. [roll0] Fire Damage, Reflex DC 19 to halve
Issachar: [roll1] The flames engulfed the mage and he felt the heavenly heat bearing down onto his body like an inferno.

Breitheamh

2018-03-05, 09:24 PM

Nyx

Confused by her sudden size changes, Nyx tries to focus on Branden's command, and runs toward the first target of Branden's volley. However, coming around a tree, she sees her target split into horse and man, and instinctually attacks the first piece in sight: the man. She comes in fast, biting for his leg to try and rip him to the ground.

Moving to B11 and attacking the inquisitor at A12.
Bite attack [roll0] (crit confirm [roll1])
Damage [roll2] (crit [roll3])

Trip attempt [roll4]

Plushie Arz

2018-03-08, 07:24 AM

"Do I get set on fire" saves:
Reflex Saves: [roll0]
Reflex Saves: [roll1]
Reflex Saves: [roll2]

https://i.imgur.com/nKq0Zcv.png

Nyx leapt at the inquisitor but the man stepped to one side and the wolf landed harmlessly on the ground next to him.

ROUND 2
Aulinair rose twenty feet into the air and moved ten feet to the west. Her hair and robes still smouldered from the column of divine fire which had engulfed her seconds before but she raised a finger at one of the inquisitors. Issachar and Keyiris recognised the words forming on her lips as a necrotic command, one which would weaken its target and leave them so incapacitated they cannot even bear the weight of their steel plates. A cry from one of the Inquisitors behind the Zelekhut interrupted her casting. "Purgo!"

A second burst of abjuration magic, more focused and targeted at latent spell formed around Aulinair and caught her off guard. The ray fizzled and dissipated harmlessly into the aether.

The Zelekhut stood proud and tall over Obaith and uttered a single word of power and the mighty eagle suddenly crumpled into a heap, its muscles frozen and helpless. The group recognised it as a powerful compulsion of holding, one which rendered its target utterly helpless. "Hold." As Obaith fell, Lethio rolled off its back, also prone.

Obaith's Will save: [roll3] DC17

Lethio is prone.

Alias_Trench

2018-03-08, 09:20 AM

ROUND 2

Aurix could already see the damage from the last few blows start to knit back together. Short of knowing exactly what would stop the healing, the only way to beat such a power was to generate more injury than the body could heal, though it was clear to Aurix that the inevitable was resisting the force of his blows. Aurix grimaced internally and instead resorted to using energy based attacks.
Aurix gathered his wits and took in the scene around him. There were a number of inquisitors who had yet to make a motion. Aurix became wary of them and doubled down on his mental vigilance. Meanwhile, the Inevitable spoke words of power and Obaith crumpled to the ground beside Aurix with Lethio rolling onto the ground prone. Though the bird seemed aberrant in nature, he still felt for it in it's current condition. Aurix returned his attention to the mechanical creature before him with a steely intent in his eyes.

"I am your opponent", Aurix said whilst his pupils dilated and a crackling dark energy formed in his palm. Aurix reached out as if to give a warning shot to the inevitbable, as if to say, this is why you should pay attention to me.

AC
FF
Touch

24
21
19

Reflex
Fort
Will

13
13
14

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

94

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Resistance
+1 Resistance bonus on saving throws
1 minute
(2 rounds remaining)

Haste
Double move speed (+15ft enhancement)
+1 to AC (dodge), to hit, Reflex saves, bonus attack at full BAB on full attack action
9 rounds remaining

Iron Guard's Glare
all enemies Aurix threatens take -4 to attack Aurix's Allies. Enemies you threaten are aware of this consequence.
indefinite

Knowlege Devotion (Outsiders)
+1 to hit and damage against creatures of the Outsider type
end of combat

Knowledge Devotion (Humanoids)
+2 to hit and damage against creatures of the Humanoid type
end of combat

Immediate action counter attack - Wall of blades
AC or attack roll vs incoming strike (to be used on the first non critical hit)

Conditional Modifiers: if adjacent 2 foes with no ally within 30ft, Bullybasher's Gauntlets gain +1 weapon enhancement and +1d6
Special:
Aurix Vuthaussir (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1328071)
Male NG Human Sword Sage 3, Crusader 1, Warblade 1, Shadow Sun Ninja 5, Level 10, Init 7, HP 94/94(+9 temp HP), Speed 15 ft Base +15 (Haste) +10 (Boots)
AC 24, Touch 19, Flat-footed 21, Fort 13, Ref 13, Will 14, Base Attack Bonus 8/3
Legacy Weapon Bullybasher's Gauntlet (Unarmed Strike Level 8) +13/+8 (2d8+3+2, x2 (+1 Con damage))
Alchemical Silver Dagger (Discipline Weapon Focus) +12/+7 (+11/+6 if thrown) (1d4+3-1, 19-20 x2)
Touch of the Shadow Sun (Positive is a swift action if on self or recipient allows it) +11 (2d8+5, x2)
Soulfire +1 Mithral Chain Shirt (+5 Armor, +3 Dex, +6 Misc)
Abilities Str 16, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 20, Cha 7
Condition Haste: +1 attack, reflex, AC
Resistance +1 to all saving throws
Additional Information

Aegis (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=235370)
NG Construct Item Familiar (Unearthed Arcana p.170), Level 10, Init -5, HP 70/70, DR Hardness 25, Speed
AC 6, Touch 5, Flat-footed 6, Fort 10, Ref 8, Will 13, Base Attack Bonus 8
Ray of Frost +5 Ranged Touch (1d3, x2)
(+1 Armor, -5 Dex, +2 Size, -2 Misc)
Abilities Str 0, Dex 0, Con 0, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 10
Condition None
At will: Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost +5 1d3, Read Magic, Repair Minor Damage, Resistance.

NB - I now have 6 readied Sword sage manoeuvres due to the "invest spell slot" ability of the item familiar. 2 Manoeuvres readied are invested for a return of a bonus 1. The table has been updated to reflect that

Active Stance: Iron Guard's Glare.

Next granted crusader manoeuvre
[roll0] - Foe Hammer

Crusader [I]granted
Swordsage
Warblade

1
Crusader's Strike
Shadowstride
Mountain Hammer

2
Vanguard Strike
Deathmark
Wall of Blades

3
Douse the Flames
Cloak of Deception
Sudden Leap

4
Foe Hammer
Shadow Blade Technique

5
Tactical Strike
Moment of Perfect Mind

Comet Throw

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Swift Action - Change stance to Iron Guard's Glare

creatures that are within Aurix's threat range take a -4 to attack rolls against Aurix's allies. Creatures who are so effected are aware of the mentioned consequence.

Standard Action - Touch of the Shadow Sun - Negative
Touch Attack
[roll1]
Crit confirm
[roll2]
[roll3]
Crit damage
[roll4]
Negative Energy

correction: this should be +15.
8 Base + 3 STR + 1 Weapon Focus + 1 Magic Weapon + 1 Haste + 1 Knowledge Devotion

Keyiris (1d20+9)[26]
Zelehhut: (1d20+9)[22]
Aulinair (1d20+6)[22]
Aurix and Aegis (1d20+7)[18]
Issachar (1d20+2)[17]
Lucius (1d20+2)[16]
Obaith & Lethio (1d20+5)[15]
Skathus and Branden (1d20+2)[14]
Thesa (1d20+2)[9]
Inquisitors: (1d20+6)[7]
Nyx (1d20+2)[5]

happycube

2018-03-09, 05:02 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris clutched the hilt of his blade close to the tender flesh ravaged only moments before by the Zelekhut's chain, gasping for breath as he reevaluated the battlefield. He had miscalculated somewhat in his approach, as the punishing blow had made quite clear. Keyiris scowled at the inquisitors' liberal use of dispelling, as he felt the conjured armor around himself dissipate. Remind me to thank Thesa once more after this for the redundancy provided by her ward, he thought to Aza’Athavariel, steeling himself for another dash. The other inquisitors would be troublesome, but they had yet to demonstrate the same singular presence as the extraplanar entity before him.

"Apologies for departing our plan; this course seems prudent," Keyiris muttered to Aurix as he sprinted to join the other man at the Zelekhut's side, hoping to dodge its chains in his approach. Keyiris focused his mind for a fraction of a second, loosing a number of prepared spells into raw arcane energy that limned his blade as he swing in vicious-yet-calculated cuts at the inevitable.

If Keyiris' turn is taken in normal initiative order, his attacks will gain an additional +4 to hit on top of the recorded rolls thanks to Aurix's Vanguard Strike maneuver, whose effect would not yet have expired. Otherwise, everything stands as-is.

Swift action: activate Boots of Frenzied Movement to gain a move action as per Hustle
Move action: move to F11, provoking an attack of opportunity from the Zelekhut; the Zelekhut is still the target of Keyiris' Dodge feat, and Keyiris receives an additional +4 dodge bonus to AC against AoO's from movement thanks to his Mobility feat
Free action: activate Arcane Strike feat, sacrificing a prepared casting of each of Whirling Blade (level 2), Fly (level 3) and Polymorph (level 4) for +4 to hit and +9d4 to damage with his longsword for the round
Full-round action: attack the Zelekhut thrice, using Power Attack with a -5 penalty to hit for +10 to damage

Iterative attack 1: [roll0] to hit, for [roll1] + [roll2] (Arcane Strike) + [roll3] (Swift Surge)

Haste attack: [roll4] to hit, for [roll5] + [roll6] (Arcane Strike) + [roll7] (Swift Surge)

Iterative attack 2: [roll8] to hit, for [roll9] + [roll10] (Arcane Strike) + [roll11] (Swift Surge)

(Critical threats are irrelevant due to the Zelekhut's construct traits)

AC
FF
Touch

23 (22 +1 Haste)

19

17

Reflex
Fort
Will

14 (13 +1 Haste)

8

10

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

55+(1) temp

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Fire 5

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Magic Vestment (clothing)
+2 enhancement bonus to armor
~10 hours

Magic Weapon (longsword)
+2 enhancement bonus
Until 1 hour into next trance

Heart of Earth
Check bonuses, temp HP (expended) and ability to activate Stoneskin for 10 rounds as a swift action, after which the spell expires
~10 hours

Heart of Water
Skill bonuses, swim speed and ability to activate Freedom of Movement for 10 rounds as a swift action, after which the spell expires
Until 1 hour into next trance

Shield
+4 shield bonus to AC
3/100 rounds

Haste
+1 dodge bonus to AC, +1 to attack rolls, +1 to reflex saves
2/10 rounds

Knowledge Devotion
+4 to attack and damage rolls vs. humanoids and animals, +5 vs. outsiders
Encounter

Power Attack
-5 to hit, +10 to damage (two-handed)
Round

Dodge
+1 dodge to AC vs. Zelekhut

Conditional Modifiers: +4 dodge to AC vs. attacks of opportunity provoked by movement (Mobility)
Special: 40% miss chance (Blurred Alacrity class feature); +1d6 damage if moving at least 10 ft. (Swift Surge class feature); light fortification, 25% (interaction of Heart of Earth and Heart of Water spells)

Plushie Arz

2018-03-10, 09:14 PM

Aurix's handful of crackling negative energy didn't do anything to the Zelekhut. He recalled the fight with the automatons all those years ago and remembered as creatures of metal as opposed to flesh and bone, they were unharmed by the emanations from the nether realms.

Keyiris slashed at the Zelekhut and blade was like a shining leaf dancing in the wind. He carved another deep wound on the Zelekhut but the construct moved to catch his next two swings with its chained forearms.

Kvard51

2018-03-16, 10:44 AM

Seeing that the attacks directed at the Inevitable seem to be having little effect, Issachar decides to go with a more direct tack. Intoning words of Transmutation, he begins to transform into a monstrous shape. Sickly green skin, a bulbous nose, and ragged, black claws form as Issachar's body grows massive. As horns sprout from his head of lank, greasy hair, you recognize the form of a cave troll standing before you.

Once complete, he immediately runs toward the edge of the crag, launching himself over the side at the metal creature.

Polymorph spell into a Cave Troll.

TROLL, CAVE
Large Giant
Hit Dice: 9d8+72 (112 hp)
Initiative: +1
Speed: 40 ft. (8 squares)
Armor Class: 21 (–1 size, +11 natural armor, +1 Dex), touch
10, fl at-footed 20
Base Attack/Grapple: +6/+19
Attack: Claw +11 melee (2d6+12)*
Full Attack: 2 claws +11 melee (2d6+12)* and bite +6 melee
(1d8+7)*
Space/Reach: 10 ft./10 ft.
Special Attacks: Dazing blow, improved grab, pounce,
rake, rend 4d6+13
Special Qualities: Darkvision 90 ft., fast healing 8,
low-light vision, scent
Saves: Fort +14, Ref +4, Will +6
Abilities: Str 29, Dex 13, Con 27, Int 3, Wis 13, Cha 6
Skills: Jump +16, Listen +6, Spot +6, Survival +4**
Feats: Alertness, Iron Will, Power Attack, Track
Environment: Underground
Organization: Solitary or pair
Challenge Rating: 8
Treasure: Standard
Alignment: Usually chaotic evil
Advancement: 10–14 HD (Large); 15–27 HD (Huge)
Level Adjustment: +6
*Includes adjustments for Power Attack feat.

Run and jump over the edge of the crag, landing at K12.

Heal 10 HP upon polymorph.

Aldurin

2018-03-18, 09:57 AM

As Lethio crashes to the ground he realizes Obaith's plight and takes up the front line. He gets to his feet and steps toward Zelekhut, his heavily scarred elven form expanding and deforming until it becomes a heavily scarred polar bear, the working eye showing a wild bloodlust taking over.

Lethio's Actions:
Move action: Get up from prone.
Swift: Cast Iconic Manifestation, sharing the spell with Obaith.
Misc: Five-foot step to I-9
Standard: Wild Shape into a polar bear. Will occupy H9, I9, H10, I10 to account for the size change.

Obaith:
Full-round: Attempt a new will save against the spell. [roll0]

Breitheamh

2018-03-18, 11:05 PM

Branden continues to strafe the enemy line, curling Skathus around the trees and sending two flame arrows at the inquisitor in front of Nyx and one to each of the next in line.

Using a similar maneuver as last time, ending in M7 after strafing.

Attacks on A12:
[roll0] (crit confirm [roll1])
damage [roll2]+1 fire+[roll3] (crit [roll4])
[roll5] (crit confirm [roll6])
damage [roll7]+1 fire+[roll8] (crit [roll9])

Attack on D9:
[roll10] (crit confirm [roll11])
damage [roll12]+1 fire+[roll13] (crit [roll14])

Attack on E8:
[roll15] (crit confirm [roll16])
damage [roll17]+1 fire+[roll18] (crit [roll19])

AC 26, Fort +10, Ref +17, Will +8

Ryuuk

2018-03-23, 10:45 AM

Thesa tries to make sense of the chaos. Her friends clashing with the inquisitors, fire was coming down from the heavens, the angel was unaffected by the winds... Nyx grew and shrank, magic was called forth, Isaachar transformed into another monster.

She had to make sense of it all and do her part. She gestures with her arms as if pulling something to her left, then crouches. To the sky, as she raises, jumping, a gust carries her far above the battlefield, landing on the air with sure steps. Looking down, she mutters a prayer, and once again gestures a blast of air before her. Winter's wind, answer my call!

Swift: Updraft 90ft into the air, Air Walk to step onto the air and not come back down.
Move: Redirect active Boreal Wind to the left, trying to avoid all friendly fire. It's borders straight along Rows 16 and 19
Standard: Cast second Boreal Wind, placement is detailed below, but it should hit the Inquisitors in D9, E8 and the Zelkehut. Possibly more if the wind is ruled to continue after hitting the ground at an 31° angle as pictured. It's borders would be columns D and H

Boreal Wind (DC 22 Fort Negates, SR: [roll0], lasts 6 rounds. Damage: [roll1] Cold, move 30ft away from Thesa

https://imgur.com/mdWLSxsThesa would be at the 100 ft mark, away from the ground. 31° from the y axis, the Wind should het the ground 45 to 68ft ft from her origin in X.

Alias_Trench

2018-03-27, 06:28 PM

ROUND 2

Aurix's handful of crackling negative energy didn't do anything to the Zelekhut. He recalled the fight with the automatons all those years ago and remembered as creatures of metal as opposed to flesh and bone, they were unharmed by the emanations from the nether realms.

Keyiris slashed at the Zelekhut and blade was like a shining leaf dancing in the wind. He carved another deep wound on the Zelekhut but the construct moved to catch his next two swings with its chained forearms.

The Zelekhut shuddered as the blade finished cutting a swathe through its metallic hide, the perfect synchronous movement of its cogs and gears disrupted as a horrible grinding filled the air as it's monotone voice strained

"Any resistance will be extermin-a-t..."

before it's physical form collapsed and rapidly began rusting. Behind Lethio's new form he could hear Obaith begin to stir, having managed to throw off the effect of the Inevitable's spell, however there were still enemies before him and his hard won companion was still vulnerable.

Thus far the party had seen the man to the west near Nyx (A12), the woman (D9) and the man (E8) behind the Inevitable cast spells. One of Branden's arrows hit their respective marks as he circled above. The man being engaged by Nyx burst into flames as the dragon's breath arrow made contact, while the woman and man got hit but were not as wounded or bothered by the wounds they sustained relative to where they were hit.

Thesa noticed a strange phenomenon occur when she aimed the boreal wind at the two inquisitors on the ground. While the woman fell and began to succumb to the frost, the frost did not take the way she expected. Meanwhile the man managed to stand his ground but suddenly looked quite battered.

The inquisitors in turn retaliated with their own barrage of spells. The man behind the zelekhut stepped out of the intoned a prayer and a burst of axiomatic energy erupted amongst Aurix, Issachar, Keyris, Lethio and Obaith while a man in full plate wielding a bastard sword stepped up beside him in a defensive stance. Meanwhile the very vegetation below the party surged with vital power to grapple them, courtesy of a chain shirt wearing inquisitor to the north west (A1).

[roll0] damage
Will saves for half/quarter damage
Aurix [roll1] Pass - quarter damage [7]
Issachar [roll2] Pass - quarter damage [7]
Keyris [roll3] Fail - Half Damage [15]
Lethio [roll4] Pass - Half Damage [15]
Obaith [roll5] Fail - Half Damage [15]
Reflex Saves to avoid being entangled
Aurix [roll6] Pass
Issachar [roll7] Fail
Keyris [roll8] Pass
Lethio [roll9] Fail
Obaith [roll10] Pass
Lucius [roll11] Fail
The prone woman stood and then looked up through the gale, focusing her attention on Thesa. With a single finger pointed directly up at Thesa, a single bead of red energy streaked upwards, erupting into a fireball that engulfed the young woman.
[roll12] fire damage Reflex save [roll13] for half - Success - [15]

The inquisitor in front of Nyx, though on fire, gritted his teeth and began making the motions of casting but warily eyeing the Direwolf in front of him. None of his careful motions seemed to draw Nyx's attention and soon the flames on his body took a violet tinge. Finally he loosed the bastard sword strapped to his back and readied himself against the beast before him
Casting defensively[roll14] Success
If fail, AoO from Nyx [roll15] for [roll16] (crit: [roll17] for [roll18])
Concentration check against damage while casting [roll19]
Also fire damage from being on fire that was not calculated before: [roll]1d6[roll] EDIT: I goofed on the code but IRL I rolled a [6] so you gotta be happy with that :)
also [roll20]

Arrows soon began to whistle through the sky towards Branden and Skathus. Branden's keen eyes noted their trajectory was in fact at Skathus and two arrows were going to make their mark.
Branden also noticed one inquisitor move under the tree to the north, he seemed to be intently watching Aulinair.

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Full attack 1
Hit
[roll21]
Crit confirm
[roll22]
[roll23]
crit damage
+[roll24]
Piercing

You have the opportunity to stop one arrow with mounted combat.

Full attack 2
Hit
[roll25]
Crit confirm
[roll26]
[roll27]
crit damage
+[roll28]
Piercing

Full attack 3
[roll29]
Crit confirm
[roll30]
[roll31]
crit damage
+[roll32]
Piercing

https://photos-1.dropbox.com/t/2/AADBaCmP4RqyTbVcybR3XmVRJhHNHqX59D94fvmfMzPoYg/12/10217126/png/32x32/1/_/1/2/wilderness%2005.png/EJDP_IEEGKUCIAcoBw/IqXX6l1rzoIQ4OyHiv6s7J0SMCdZSKBP7AH5RHMGlog?preser ve_transparency=1&size=1280x960&size_mode=3

Breitheamh

2018-03-27, 07:31 PM

Nyx

As the man before her catches fire, Nyx recognizes her master's tactics and pounces, trying to take him down to the ground.

Attack same Inquisitor as before.

Bite [roll0] (crit confirm [roll1])
Damage [roll2] (crit [roll3])
Trip attempt [roll4]

Edit: Man, Nyx just has no luck with her rolls.

Alias_Trench

2018-03-28, 07:57 AM

Round 3
https://photos-6.dropbox.com/t/2/AAD7Hu0d6DuZVaNTEAE8YVA7cHoV0C0a7g2xlB42RKiB0w/12/10217126/png/32x32/1/_/1/2/Wilderness06.png/EJDP_IEEGKYCIAcoBw/OMKGH6dzK4hSlZh-2SIISI5zOb6RMQ2nNlKNU9mUB9Q?preserve_transparency= 1&size=1280x960&size_mode=3
Nyx lunged forward but the inquisitor deflected her attack with his bastard sword. Aulinair reached into her component pouch and drew forth a single dried cephalopod tentacle and began chanting and weaving the required hand motions to summon forth a pool of rubbery black tentacles. The inquisitor with his eyes intently on Aulinair immediately sprung to action, a rapid litany of negation and the magic that robbed Aulinair of her last spell made its reprise and her spell once again fizzled into the aether.
Aulinair CL check [roll0]
Dispel Check[roll1] Winner
If Aulinair is successful Black Tentacles

target
Black tentacle Grapple Check
Target Grapple Check
Winner

A4
[roll2]
[roll3]

D1
[roll4]
[roll5]

H3
[roll6]
[roll7]

D6
[roll8]
[roll9]

E6
[roll10]
[roll11]

C8
[roll12]
[roll13]

Edit: Those guys are soooo lucky.

happycube

2018-03-29, 10:10 AM

KEYIRIS

Keyiris slid his blade from the rapidly rusting arm-chains of the fallen inevitable, pivoting into a face-full of energy from one of the inquisitor's spells. Even as he winced at the pain, he instinctively activated his boots once more, feeling his body surge with energy to dance over the thickening vegetation underfoot. Weighing his own wounds against the demonstrated abilities of the enemy, Keyiris decided to press into the fray. Scanning the enemy combatants, he settled on the nearest foe as his next target, nodding to Aurix to join him in the midst of the enemy line. The woman was suddenly Keyiris' sole focus, as he dashed to strike at her with the same savage grace and arcane energy that had felled the outsider mere moments before.

Swift action: activate Boots of Frenzied Movement to gain a move action as per Hustle
Move action: move F11->D11->C10->C8, selecting the female inquisitor at C8 as the target of Keyiris' Dodge feat
Free action: activate Arcane Strike feat, sacrificing a prepared casting of each of Invisibility (level 2) for +2 to hit and +2d4 to damage with his longsword for the round
Full-round action: attack the female inquisitor at C8 thrice, using Power Attack with a -5 penalty to hit for +10 to damage

Iterative attack 1: [roll0] to hit, for [roll1] + [roll2] (Arcane Strike) + [roll3] (Swift Surge)

Haste attack: [roll4] to hit, for [roll5] + [roll6] (Arcane Strike) + [roll7] (Swift Surge)

Iterative attack 2: [roll8] to hit, for [roll9] + [roll10] (Arcane Strike) + [roll11] (Swift Surge)

19-20/x2
[roll12] to confirm, for [roll13]
[roll14] to confirm, for [roll15]
[roll16] to confirm, for [roll17]

AC
FF
Touch

23 (22 +1 Haste)

19

17

Reflex
Fort
Will

14 (13 +1 Haste)

8

10

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

41

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Fire 5

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Magic Vestment (clothing)
+2 enhancement bonus to armor
~10 hours

Magic Weapon (longsword)
+2 enhancement bonus
Until 1 hour into next trance

Heart of Earth
Check bonuses, temp HP (expended) and ability to activate Stoneskin for 10 rounds as a swift action, after which the spell expires
~10 hours

Heart of Water
Skill bonuses, swim speed and ability to activate Freedom of Movement for 10 rounds as a swift action, after which the spell expires
Until 1 hour into next trance

Shield
+4 shield bonus to AC
4/100 rounds

Haste
+1 dodge bonus to AC, +1 to attack rolls, +1 to reflex saves
3/10 rounds

Knowledge Devotion
+4 to attack and damage rolls vs. humanoids and animals, +5 vs. outsiders
Encounter

Power Attack
-5 to hit, +10 to damage (two-handed)
Round

Dodge
+1 dodge to AC vs. woman@C8

Conditional Modifiers: +4 dodge to AC vs. attacks of opportunity provoked by movement (Mobility)
Special: 40% miss chance (Blurred Alacrity class feature); +1d6 damage if moving at least 10 ft. (Swift Surge class feature); light fortification, 25% (interaction of Heart of Earth and Heart of Water spells)

Alias_Trench

2018-03-30, 05:16 PM

Round 3
The unarmed woman was surprisingly deft at dodging Keyris' swings, though Keyris managed to catch her with his second strike. Instead of the feeling of steel on flesh Keyris could feel the force of his strike being resisted by a number of abjurations, though he did manage to draw blood, the injury he inflicted was much less than he expected.
https://i.imgur.com/LxlFwV2.png

Aurix - Round 3
Aurix noted the subtle nod as Keyris became a blur of movement once again. Aurix followed his line of momentum and as soon as he saw Keyris stop, with a slight glance towards Issachar to check that he was ok, Aurix vanished into shadows and reappeared behind the woman who became Keyris' target. Reaching out Aurix lightly tapped Keyris with the positive energy that had come from the previous negative energy before whirling around and striking the same woman with a crusader's strike. His strike was true but the blow was largely negated by the woman's abjurations. Never the less, healing energy surged through Keyris as his wounds began to knit back together.

AC
FF
Touch

24
21
19

Reflex
Fort
Will

13
13
14

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP (Temp HP)

7

94

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Resistance
+1 Resistance bonus on saving throws
1 minute
(1 rounds remaining)

Haste
Double move speed (+15ft enhancement)
+1 to AC (dodge), to hit, Reflex saves, bonus attack at full BAB on full attack action
8 rounds remaining

Iron Guard's Glare
all enemies Aurix threatens take -4 to attack Aurix's Allies. Enemies you threaten are aware of this consequence.
indefinite

Knowlege Devotion (Outsiders)
+1 to hit and damage against creatures of the Outsider type
end of combat

Knowledge Devotion (Humanoids)
+2 to hit and damage against creatures of the Humanoid type
end of combat

Steely Resolve
Delay up to 5 points of damage per round by 1 round. Damage is taken at the end of the next turn

Furious counterattack
Divide total damage in Steely Resolve by 5 and add to attack and damage rolls. [+1]

Immediate action counter attack - Wall of blades
AC or attack roll vs incoming strike (to be used on the first non critical hit)

Conditional Modifiers: if adjacent 2 foes with no ally within 30ft, Bullybasher's Gauntlets gain +1 weapon enhancement and +1d6
Special:
Aurix Vuthaussir (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1328071)
Male NG Human Sword Sage 3, Crusader 1, Warblade 1, Shadow Sun Ninja 5, Level 10, Init 7, HP 94/94(+9 temp HP), Speed 15 ft Base +15 (Haste) +10 (Boots)
AC 24, Touch 19, Flat-footed 21, Fort 13, Ref 13, Will 14, Base Attack Bonus 8/3
+1 Legacy Weapon Bullybasher's Gauntlet (Unarmed Strike Level 8, Discipline Weapon Focus) +13/+8 (2d8+3+2, x2 (+1 Con damage))
Alchemical Silver Dagger (Discipline Weapon Focus) +12/+7 (+11/+6 if thrown) (1d4+3-1, 19-20 x2)
Touch of the Shadow Sun (Positive is a swift action if on self or recipient allows it) +11 (2d8+5, x2)
Soulfire +1 Mithral Chain Shirt (+5 Armor, +3 Dex, +6 Misc)
Abilities Str 16, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 20, Cha 7
Condition Haste: +1 attack, reflex, AC
Resistance +1 to all saving throws
Additional Information

Aegis (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=235370)
NG Construct Item Familiar (Unearthed Arcana p.170), Level 10, Init -5, HP 70/70, DR Hardness 25, Speed
AC 6, Touch 5, Flat-footed 6, Fort 10, Ref 8, Will 13, Base Attack Bonus 8
Ray of Frost +5 Ranged Touch (1d3, x2)
(+1 Armor, -5 Dex, +2 Size, -2 Misc)
Abilities Str 0, Dex 0, Con 0, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 10
Condition None
At will: Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost +5 1d3, Read Magic, Repair Minor Damage, Resistance.

Active Stance: Iron Guard's Glare.

Next granted crusader manoeuvre
[roll0] - Douse the flames

Crusader [I]granted
Swordsage
Warblade

1
Crusader's Strike
Shadowstride
Mountain Hammer

2
Vanguard Strike
Deathmark
Wall of Blades

3
Douse the Flames
Cloak of Deception
Sudden Leap

4
Foe Hammer
Shadow Blade Technique

5
Tactical Strike
Moment of Perfect Mind

Comet Throw

Action
Roll
Damage
Type
Special
DM

Move action - Shadow Stride (Ex) - H11:C7

50 ft Teleport with line of sight and effect

Swift Action - Touch of the Shadow Sun - Positive - Target: Keyris

[roll1]
positive energy

Standard Action - Crusader's Strike (Ex) at C8
[roll2]
Crit
[roll3]
[roll4]-1=14
Crit
[roll5]+1 CON
Keyris Heal [roll6]
Bludgeoning, Magical,
Attack: Base 8 + 3 Str + 1 magic weapon + 1 Weapon Focus + 1 Haste + 1 Furious Counter strike + 2 Knowledge Devotion

Damage: Base 2d8+3 STR +1 Magic Weapon + 1 Furious Counter Strike + 2 Knowledge Devotion

Keyiris (1d20+9)[26]
Zelehhut: (1d20+9)[22] Dead
Aulinair (1d20+6)[22]
Aurix and Aegis (1d20+7)[18]
Issachar (1d20+2)[17]
Lucius (1d20+2)[16]
Obaith & Lethio (1d20+5)[15]
Skathus and Branden (1d20+2)[14]
Thesa (1d20+2)[9]
Inquisitors: (1d20+6)[7]
Nyx (1d20+2)[5]

Aldurin

2018-04-04, 10:21 PM

Lethio struggles against the vines to no avail, but when he sees that Obaith is back in action he roars directly at one of the nearby inquisitors to convey that it's the target. As the bird hops into the air to pursue the man, Lethio lets loose the charge of planar energy he had just gathered. Even as a scarred and grizzled bear, the visual differences become immediate as Lethio appeared to be biologically disheveled, with a look of mutation that somehow didn't interfere with his movements. Obaith's transformation is more subtle, as his usual appearance is already close to what a fiendish version of a giant eagle might look like.

Lethio uses a standard action to discharge the passive mode of Iconic Manifestation, granting himself the Anarchic template and Obaith the Fiendish template for 10 minutes.
Changes to Lethio:
Smite Law, usable once per day.
Darkvision 60 ft
5 points of resistance to fire, acid, cold, electricity and sonic damage.
Polymorph and petrification immunity.
Fast Healing 3

Changes to Obaith:
Smite Good, usable once per day.
Darkvision 60 ft
Spell Resistance 14
Resist Cold 10
DR 5/magic (assuming this doesn't stack with Animal Growth's DR)
Natural weapons treated as magic for the purpose of overcoming DR.

Obaith Actions:
Move: Move to occupy G-I 6-8 (H-J 7-9 should the entangling spell subject him to difficult terrain). Remaining within share spells range of Lethio.
Standard: Talon attack at the man in F5, expending Smite Good.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] base + [roll2] acid + [roll3] human bane + 9 if Smite Good applies

Stand from prone. Fly to G6-I8 at 10 ft altitude.

Active Effects On Obaith for reference:
Animal Growth and Iconic Manifestation (shared by Lethio):
Huge Size, 30 Str, 19 Dex, 26 Con. +4 resistance to all saves. DR 10/magic. AC 32 (Touch 12, FF 28).
Spell Resistance 14, Resist Cold 10, Darkvision 60 ft, Bite attack now counts as magic vs DR.

Current HP unless I missed something:
Lethio: 48/63
Obaith: 84/115

Kvard51

2018-04-07, 03:17 PM

Kvard51

2018-04-07, 03:26 PM

Unable to avoid the grasping vegetation, Issachar attempts to cast a spell, targeting the Inquisitors farthest from the front. As he speaks in arcane tongues, a mass of tentacles begins to appear, then fades, then reappears. A look of intense concentration crosses his troll face as he battles to finish the spell.

Black Tentacles targeting D-3 as the center point. Concentration Check (15+ Spell Level 4): [roll0]

Grapple Check: [roll1]

Breitheamh

2018-04-08, 08:51 PM

Branden

As the arrows streak toward their target, Branden is able to direct Skathus skillfully to avoid the first arrow, and nearly avoids the second, but the missile grazes by, cutting a superficial but deep gash along Skathus' side.

Seeing the inquisitor try to sneak under the tree for cover, Branden whispers a short prayer, "Guide my shots, my lady," he says as he draws four arrows and Skathus flies into a position for Branden to have clear shots at any of the inquisitors.

With a focusing breath, and divine magic flowing briskly into his eyes, Branden looses four quick arrows across the battlefield at the inquisitor under the tree. Just as soon as he has flown in, Skathus turns sharply and climbs again, bringing Branden back toward Lucius

Meanwhile, Nyx pounces again at the man in front of her, determined to bring him down.

Ride check to negate the first hit. Don't need to roll because my modifier is 21 and the attack was 15.

Swift action cast Sniper's Shot

4 Attacks at H3:
[roll0] (crit confirm [roll1])
Damage [roll2] + [roll3] (crit [roll4])

[roll5] (crit confirm [roll6])
Damage [roll7] + [roll8] (crit [roll9])

[roll10] (crit confirm [roll11])
Damage [roll12] + [roll13] (crit [roll14])

[roll15] (crit confirm [roll16])
Damage [roll17] + [roll18] (crit [roll19])

Skathus move to A7 at 10 feet up, then turning and moving back to H15 at 35 feet up (I think I've got enough movement to get there)

Nyx bite and trip (I just realized I've been forgetting to factor in her Haste, so +10 rather than +9 to attacks and gets a second attack)
attack 1 [roll20] (crit confirm [roll21])
damage [roll22] (crit [roll23])

attack 2 [roll24] (crit confirm [roll25])
damage [roll26] (crit [roll27])

trip attempt (for first attack that hits)
[roll28]

Alias_Trench

2018-04-08, 10:00 PM

Issachar abruptly disappears from view only to reappear closer to the edge of the area effected by the swarming vegetation. Vines and grasses immediately try to entangle his limbs as he fights toward the edge.

Immediate Action: Abrupt Jaunt 10' (landing with his back foot in M-10) Reflex Save to avoid further entanglement: 5

Unable to avoid the grasping vegetation, Issachar attempts to cast a spell, targeting the Inquisitors farthest from the front. As he speaks in arcane tongues, a mass of tentacles begins to appear, then fades, then reappears. A look of intense concentration crosses his troll face as he battles to finish the spell.

Black Tentacles targeting D-3 as the center point. Concentration Check (15+ Spell Level 4): 28

Grapple Check: 29

Round 3

https://i.imgur.com/Lhce7I4g.png

Obaith took to the air and positioned aggressively before the man in full plate wielding a bastard sword and a shield. He steeled his gaze against the evil looking raptor before Issachar's spell resolved and rubbery black tentacles erupted from the ground. Three inquisitors gave a yelp of surprise as their bodies were soon hoisted from the ground and restrained. From above, Branden and Thesa could clearly see that the tentacles, though attempting to grab the destrier, were simply sliding off its body.

Opposed Grapples

E6
[roll0] Fail

D6
[roll1] Fail

D1
[roll2] Pass

A4
[roll3] Fail

Keyiris (1d20+9)[26]
Zelehhut: (1d20+9)[22] Dead
Aulinair (1d20+6)[22]
Aurix and Aegis (1d20+7)[18]
Issachar (1d20+2)[17]
Lucius (1d20+2)[16]
Obaith & Lethio (1d20+5)[15]
Skathus and Branden (1d20+2)[14]
Thesa (1d20+2)[9]
Inquisitors: (1d20+6)[7]
Nyx (1d20+2)[5]

Ryuuk

2018-04-09, 11:36 AM

Thesa does what she can to brace herself as the bead explodes. Once the painful rush of flames passes, she finds herself with her holy symbol held to her chest, her face tucked into her free arm. She was whole, the purifying fires had not turned her to ash for her sin, at least, not immediatly. She breaths deep, looking to the sky and tightening the grip on her symbol. "Thank you, help me be worthy of your Grace"

She looks down at the chaos below her, feeling somewhat serene, glad to be able to make sense of it while not within it. Acting as a vessel for her grace, emitting her light, she moves carefully and with purpose. Swift motions, moving the sources of frigid wind around her, avoiding her allies. She hesitates for a moment, looking at the black tendrils already gripping them, but finishes her motion, regardless. The longer this lasted, the more suffering it would bring. She aims the blasts at the inquisitors to the north, avoiding their animals.

Swift: Cast Grace (Body Emits light, -20 to hide, +10 base speed, +2 Sacred bonus to Dex, for 10 rounds)
Move: Aim first Boreal Winds to hit C3 to E6, moving the winds to avoid hitting Obaith (aim it below her, then around everyone else
Standard -> Move: Aim second Boreal Winds so that the bottom right corner is hitting B4

For simplicities sake, I'm treating the Boreal Winds as a 20 x 20 area on the ground when aimed from her current postion. Movement and placement shown in the image below:

https://i.imgur.com/kKZXIKY.jpg

AC
FF
Touch

27 + 2 if evil
23 + 2 if evil
22 + 2 if evil

Reflex
Fort
Will

9 + 2 if evil
9 + 2 if evil
14 + 2 if evil

Wounds
Non Lethal Damage
MAX HP

15
0
62

DR
SR
Energy Resist/Immunity

Cold 10

Buffs/Conditions
Details
Duration

Magic Circle Against Evil
As Protection From Evil in 10ft emanation centered on self
100 minutes - Time since casting

Air Walk
Walk on Air
100 minutes

Magic Vestment
+2 Enh to Armor
10 Hours

Haste
+30 Enh Speed, +1 Attack Rolls, AC, Dodge, Reflex
100 minutes - Time since casting

Grace
+10 Speed, +2 Sacred to Dex, -20 Hide, Emit Light from Body, 60ft
10 rounds

Conditional Modifiers:
Special:

Spells Cast:
2 1st Level: Lesser Vigor, Updraft
2 2nd Level: Divine Insight, Spiritual Weapon
4 3rd Level: Magic Circle against Evil, 2 x Magic Vestment, Grace
3 4th Level: Heightened Hold Person, 2 x Air Walk
2 5th Level: 2 x Boreal Wind

Alias_Trench

2018-04-10, 07:35 PM

Round 3

Flying overhead, Branden loosed arrows from his bow towards the inquisitor beneath the tree. The first one found it's mark before the man ducked behind the tree he was beside, the rest thudding against the bark of the wood.
Thesa's magic moved and bore down upon the four humans in her sights.

Damage
Fort saves
A1[roll1] Fail
A4[roll2] Fail
D6[roll3] Fail
E6[roll4] Fail

The cold wind managed to knock each inquisitor off their feet but as they were already being grappled by the rubbery tentacles not much changed to the status quo. With frost forming on his body and a blue tinge coming to his lips the inquisitor closest to Aurix yelled "Retreat". Keyris saw the woman nod, carefully but deftly step around Aurix's form, using it to shield her from Keyris and then begin carefully invoking power from beside Aurix and reaching out for the two men trapped in the field of black rubbery tentacles. Aurix saw her move and followed but when she began to cast she dodged out of the way of his swing, reached out and grabbed the two men and then disappeared in an instant.

[roll5] casting defensively - success
[roll6] against damage
Aurix AoO [roll7] for [roll8]
Holding around the site where the arrow had found its mark the man invoked a prayer and a zone of null magic descended upon the area where the field of writhing tentacles had risen before mounting the destrier at his side and rocketing off to the north.
Black Tentacles [roll9] Dispelled
Boreal Wind C3:F6[roll10] Dispelled
Boreal Wind A1:B4[roll11] Dispelled
D1[roll12] Dispelled a spell
A4[roll13] Nothing Dispelled
D6[roll14]
E6[roll15]
Nyx on the other hand lashed out at the inquisitor before her but her teeth were not piercing the heavy armour the man was wrapped in. Pushing her off he moved towards the horse nearby and mounted it and then cast a spell. Nyx seeing an opening lunged again for the man bit nothing but air.

Nyx's AoO [roll16] for [roll]2d6+ and a trip [roll17] while Nyx takes [roll18] cold damage

With the tentacles gone and the force of the boreal wind just frost on the ground, the male inquisitor with the bow picked themselves up off the ground and whistled to the horse nearby which dutifully clopped over to his side. The inquisitor north of him however did not get up from the ground.
"Ingrid! Come on we need to retreat! dammit..."
He mounted up and then galloped north as well.